Maitreya Buddha(弥勒佛):
In Chinese, it is pronounced as: mí lè fó，Written as:

Maitreya Buddha (Sanskrit: Maitreya, Pali: Metteyya), often referred to as Ajita Bodhisattva Mahasattva in Mahayana Buddhism scriptures, is recognized as the successor to Sakyamuni, the revered founder. He is prophesied to be born into the Saha World in the future to pursue his path and will become the next Buddha of this world, also known as the Future Buddha. He is designated as the fifth Buddha of the Bhadrakalpa, commonly referred to as “the forthcoming Maitreya Buddha.” The Yogacara school venerates him as its founder, with his extensive philosophical system elaborated and promoted by Bodhisattvas Asanga and Vasubandhu, and held in high esteem by Mahayana Buddhism masters in China such as Zhi Qian, Dao An, and Xuanzang. In many Chinese Buddhist temples, the image of the pot-bellied Maitreya (or pot-bellied Bhikkhu), modeled after the Budai monk, is frequently seen. This serves as an educational representation in Buddhism, symbolizing “great capacity and great fortune,” reminding people to learn tolerance.
The specially crafted image of the Budai monk as Maitreya Bodhisattva carries even deeper significance. His large belly symbolizes capacity and tolerance, representing “an equanimous heart, achieving a joyful demeanor,” treating everyone with joy and acceptance, embodying tolerance of all disputes and moral judgments. This image originates from the Budai monk during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period, known for his humor and wisdom and considered an incarnation of Maitreya Buddha. His statues are often seen at temple entrances, symbolizing auspiciousness and happiness.
The faith in Maitreya Buddha is especially popular in East Asian Buddhism, with believers anticipating his future enlightenment and the arrival of a peaceful and prosperous world. This belief holds significant religious importance and profoundly influences social and cultural attitudes, encouraging people to face life’s challenges with optimism and tolerance.