Translation guide
The future Buddha in Mahayana Buddhism, known in Japanese as 弥勒菩薩 (Miroku Bosatsu) or simply 弥勒 (Miroku).
Referring to the bodhisattva who will become the next Buddha
The standard full title, used in formal and religious contexts.
弥勒菩薩は未来に仏になるとされています。
Maitreya Bodhisattva is said to become a Buddha in the future.
Shorter form, common in everyday references or names.
あの寺には弥勒の像があります。
That temple has a statue of Maitreya.
Emphasizes the future Buddhahood; less common than 弥勒菩薩.
弥勒仏は56億7千万年後に出現するという。
It is said that Maitreya Buddha will appear in 5.67 billion years.
Referring to the popular figure in folklore and art, often depicted as a cheerful, pot-bellied monk
Hotei, the laughing Buddha, often associated with Maitreya in East Asian culture. Note: This is a distinct figure but commonly linked.
In Japanese, 布袋 (Hotei) is not a direct translation of Maitreya but a culturally specific representation. Use 弥勒菩薩 for the traditional Buddhist figure.
布袋様は弥勒菩薩の化身と言われています。
Hotei is said to be an incarnation of Maitreya Bodhisattva.
In Japanese Buddhism, 弥勒菩薩 is the formal term. In folk contexts, 布袋 (Hotei) is often referenced, but they are not identical. Use 弥勒菩薩 for doctrinal discussions.