Translation guide
In Japanese mythology, the god of fishing and commerce is Ebisu (恵比寿), one of the Seven Lucky Gods. This entry explains how to refer to Ebisu and related concepts in Japanese.
Referring to the Japanese god of fishing, commerce, and good fortune
The most common name for the god of fishing and commerce. Often depicted with a fishing rod and a sea bream.
恵比寿は七福神の一人です。
Ebisu is one of the Seven Lucky Gods.
An alternate kanji spelling for Ebisu, less common but still used.
この神社は恵比須様を祀っています。
This shrine enshrines Ebisu-sama.
Another alternate kanji for Ebisu, sometimes seen in older texts or specific shrine names.
戎神社でお祭りがあります。
There is a festival at Ebisu Shrine.
Referring to Ebisu in the context of business and prosperity
Literally 'Ebisu face', meaning a smiling, prosperous-looking face, often used to describe someone who looks happy and successful.
彼はいつも恵比寿顔で、商売がうまくいっているようだ。
He always has a beaming smile and seems to be doing well in business.
A gathering or festival held in honor of Ebisu, especially by merchants and fishermen, to pray for prosperity.
Recognizing Ebisu in modern contexts like locations or products
Also a trendy district in Tokyo, named after the god. Often associated with the Yebisu beer brand.
恵比寿で美味しいビールを飲みました。
I drank delicious beer in Ebisu.
The name 恵比寿 is usually pronounced 'Ebisu', but in some contexts (like the beer brand) it may be romanized as 'Yebisu' reflecting historical spelling.
毎年十月に恵比寿講が行われます。
The Ebisu festival is held every year in October.