Now this babe...this babe you've got to respect. Benten is the Japanese goddess of music, the arts, knowledge, water, good fortune, love, eloquence and wisdom. Wow! These are all good things - that is rare when you're a god. She is the patron of dancers, musicians and the geisha.
Her humble beginnings as a sea goddess (water goddess) spawned a number of local deities near lakeside communities. She later became a goddess of the rich and made the Shichi Fukujin team. It is said the island of Enoshima rose up especially to receive her footsteps.
Usually portrayed as a beautiful woman riding a dragon while playing a stringed instrument. Luckily, she has eight arms so this is easily accomplished. In her hands she holds a sword, a bow, a wheel, a key, a jewel and an arrow. Her remaining two hands are joined in prayer.