The Japanese say that every time we share a smiling Buddha, we receive money or very good news. In Japan and other Asian cultures, symbols such as the “Buddha of Fortune” (or Budai, which is different from the historical Buddha) are associated with prosperity, happiness and luck.

The gesture of sharing can be seen as an act of generosity or kindness, very important values in many Eastern philosophies, and this can create a cycle of positivity in a person’s life.