Hotei was a Zen monk (per Zen Flesh/Zen Bones) who traveled around and demanded a penny from anyone he met. He then purchased food and candy which he distributed to the children.
Welcome to the Straight Dope Message Boards, doncunnion, we’re glad you’ve found us. For future ref: when starting a thread, it’s helpful to other readers to provide a link to the column in question. Saves searching time, and helps keep us on the same page (avoiding repetition.) No biggie, you’ll know for next time, and meanwhile I assume you mean this column: Why do statues of Buddha have long earlobes? What’s the difference between fat Buddha and regular Buddha? - The Straight Dope
Hotei is mentioned in the last paragraph.
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