You have probably seen the figurine of the beckoning cat in many Oriental restaurants and shops. Did you wonder what it means and why it's there? If you did, you'll find interesting to read the Lucky Cat legend.
According to ancient legend, this cat stood in the doorway of the Gotoku-ji temple and raised her paw in the traditional Japanese beckoning gesture to a feudal lord who was passing by. The feudal lord followed the cat into the temple and instantly, a lightning bolt struck the place where the lord had been standing. Thus the cat had saved his life. From then on, the Maneki Neko has been considered an incarnation of the Goddess of Mercy.
The Gotoku-ji Temple now houses dozens of statues of this Cat, and owners of lost or sick cats stick up prayer boards with the image of the Beckoning Cat in this temple.
In business the Maneki Neko is said to bring success. This is because her raised paw beckons in customers. It also welcomes in personal happiness and harmony.
Now if this works for restaurants and shops in Japan, it should also work for homepages on the world wide web! So if you'd like a Maneki Neko for your cyberhome... or business... feel free to adopt the picture at the top of the page. Traditionally, the kitty with her left paw raised brings in business and the kitty with her right paw raised brings in money. Or you can hedge your bets and adopt both!