The Laughing Buddha is a popular symbol in Chinese culture and is also known as Budai or Pu-Tai. It is often depicted as a jolly, rotund figure with a large belly and a smiling face.
In Chinese folklore, the Laughing Buddha is considered a representation of the Maitreya Bodhisattva, a future Buddha who will bring happiness and prosperity to the world. It is believed that rubbing the Laughing Buddha's belly will bring good luck, wealth, and prosperity.
The Laughing Buddha is also associated with the concept of contentment and happiness. The idea is that true happiness comes from within, and one should strive to find joy and contentment in their current circumstances, rather than always searching for external sources of happiness.
