Gaki (餓鬼)

Name Meaning

Overview

Gaki (餓鬼) refers to “hungry ghosts” in Buddhist teachings. These are spirits cursed by karma to experience eternal hunger, often portrayed as suffering souls with exaggerated features.

• Gaki = "Starving demon" or "hungry ghost" in Japanese

Origin

• Comes from Buddhist cosmology, where Gaki inhabit one of the six realms of existence.
• Gaki are believed to be the result of intense greed or jealousy in a previous life.
• They are often mentioned in religious rituals like Segaki to appease and release them.

Appearance

• Often depicted with bloated bellies and thin necks, symbolizing their suffering.
• May have long claws, hollow eyes, or monstrous faces.
• Sometimes shown surrounded by food they cannot consume.

Behavior & Myths

• Gaki are driven by overwhelming cravings, often for food, water, or specific substances.
• They may dwell in graveyards, ruins, or shadowy places, invisible to most humans.
• Legends speak of Gaki tormenting the living or appearing during specific Buddhist ceremonies.

Symbolism

• Symbolize unchecked greed, desire, and karmic punishment.
• Represent the spiritual consequences of selfishness and vice.
• Act as cautionary figures in Buddhist teachings to encourage compassion and moderation.