Phra Sangkajai or Laughing Buddha, Happy Buddha, was a Buddhist Arhat (in Sanskrit) or Arahant (in Pali) during the time of the Lord Buddha.
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Lord Buddha praised Phra Sangkadchai for his excellence in explaining sophisticated dharma
(or dhamma) in an easily and correctly understandable manner. He is admired for his happiness, plenitude and wisdom of contentment. One belief popular maintains that rubbing his belly brings wealth,good luck and prosperity.