FEATURE: Luang Phu Sim, Wat ThamPhaaPlong, Chiang Mai.

Luang Phu Sim, Wat ThamPhaaPlong, Chiang Mai. Rian Sema 12:00, B.E 2517 (1974)

The late Phra Nāṇasidhacān is fondly known and revered throughout the country as Luang Phu Sim, or simply ‘Luang Phu’, which refers to an elderly and highly respected person in monkshood.

Luang Phu Sim was born on 26^th November B.E. 2452 (1909), to a humble peasant family of Baan Bua, Sawang Subdistrict, Pannanikom District, Sakhon Nakhon Province, as one of the seven children of Nai Saan and Nang Singkhum. Both of his parents were known to have been dedicated and supporting of the local monastery. At the age of 17, Luang Phu Sim entered the monkshood by taking a novice ordainment at Wat Rattanaraam, Ban Bua, and shortly afterwards he became a disciple of the great Phra Ajahn Mun Booridhatto at Saam Vong Village, Sri Song Kram District, Nakhon Phanom Province.

At the age of 20, he was fully ordained as a monk at Wat Sri Candravāsa, Khon Khaen Province. Phra Kroo Pisaan Arañaket was the monk who officiated at his ordainment ceremony and Phra Ajahn Singh Khandhañākamo was his main Preceptor. ‘Buddhacāro’ was his given name as a monk.

After he became a monk in the early dry seasons, Luang Phu adopted Dhutaṅgavatra, the custom of wandering in solitude through the forest wilderness, staying in caves and practicing the Dhamma. At the age of 31, he came to Chiang Mai in B.E. 2483 (1940) and built Wat Santidhamma in B.E. 2492 (1949). In later years, he was recognized as the abbot of numerous monasteries in various parts of the country. In B.E. 2502 (1959), he was given ecclesiastical title of Phra Khroo Santivarañāṇa. Between B.E. 2498 (1955) to B.E. 2409 (1966), Luang Phu was invited to be the abbot for the following temples:

• Wat Santi Tham, Chiangmai, from B.E. 2498 (1955) to B.E. 2509 (1966).
• Wat Asokaram, Samut Prakarn, from B.E. 2404 (1961) to B.E. 2509 (1966), when Luang Por Lee passed away, his relatives came to invite him to become an abbot in 1961-1965. 
• Wat Pa Suthawat, Sakon Nakhon, from B.E. 2408 (1965) to B.E. 2509 (1966).

Later in the year B.E. 2509 (1966), Luang Phu decided to resign all his abbot duties and decided to go on Tudong to practice Vipassana and live in the forest. Luang Phu went on foot all the way to the north of the country.

At the end of the Buddhist Lent that year, after travelling around to find a place for his solitary  practice and by fate he found PhaaPlong Cave, Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai, which seems to be a proper place for the solitary practice. In B.E. 2510 (1967), he established a monastery in these remote mountains that has remained his residence until the last day of his life.

His service to Buddhism can be seen from his regular strict routine: waking up at 03:00 a.m. to make prayer the Buddha, presenting a sermon at 06:00 a.m., going about alms making at O7:00 p.m. and after breakfast he would meditate. He also delivered public sermons and devoted his time and effort almost exclusively to teaching on Dramma (the Lord Buddha’s teachings) for the whole of his life.

Because of his devotion to Buddhism and his own virtue, His Majesty the King Bhumibol granted him one of the highest honour to be conferred as ‘Phra Ñāṇasidhacan’ on 12^th August B.E. 2535 (1992).

Luang Phu passed away peacefully on 14^th August B.E. 2535 (1992), at the age of 83 with 63 years in monkshood. His Majesty the King Bhumibol and Her Majesty the Queen Sirikitti presided over his funeral ceremony, which was also attended by people from all walks of life, government officials, merchants, people and his disciples from all over the country.

Although he has passed on for years, his virtue is still in people’s memories and his teachings live on, manifesting the righteous truth of life.

(Source: A placard at Wat Tham Pha Plong; https://swabhava.wordpress.com/2015/12/15/wat-tham-pha-plong-and-luang-Phu-sim/)

This Rian Luang Phu Sim Roon 6 Phim Sema Yai 12:00 (12 O’clock) was made in B.E. 2517 (2514) using Neur Thong Deang material consecrated by Luang Phu Sim and co-chanted by Luang Phu Wean of Wat DoiMaePung, Chiang Mai as well. Both masters learnt from the same Ajahn Mun and thus were very close friends, always extending invitation to each other whenever there was consecration ceremony at each other’s temple. This batch of Rian was donated by Thammasat University & Politics (Politics was removed from the university name after B.E. 2498 (1955) due to political climate then).

to assist in raising building funds for Wat Hua Nong, Wang Chai Subdistrict, Borabue District, Maha Sarakham Province.

There are both Phim Yai and Phim Lek (Big and Small mould) created for this batch with Neur Ngern, Neur Nawa and Neur Thong Deang. There is also a box set of four Rians consisting of Neur Ngern, Neur Nawa, Neur Thong Deang Galia Thong  and Neur Thong Deang for distribution to Thammasat University’s officials and students that contribute to this merit making.

Phim Yai made:

• Neur Ngern not more than 100 pieces
• Neur Nawa Loha not more than 100 pieces
• Neur Thong Deang & Galia Thong not more than 5000 pieces

Phim Lek made:

• Neur Ngern not more than 100 pieces
• Neur Nawa Loha not more than 100 pieces
• Neur Thong Deang & Galia Thong not more than 100 pieces

FEATURE: KhunPaen Luang Phor Tawee Wat BangKrang, Suphanburi. B.E 2490

Khun Paen Luang Phor Tawee Wat BangKrang, Suphanburi. B.E 2490 (1947).

This vintage batch was created by Phra Khru Apatsilakhun, better known as Luang Phor Plat Thawee, at Wat BanKrang. Vast effort was put in for this creation where Luang Phor took almost 11 years in collecting various material to make this batch of Khun Paen.

Luang Phor Plat Thawee was the grandson of Luang Por Mui, Wat Don Rai, one of the famous monk during his era in Suphanburi. During that time, he was attending the temple school in Wat BanKrang studying the Phra Pariyadhamma wicha. In B.E 2479 (1936), he started planning to make a batch of Khun Paen and thus started to collect holy materials for this auspicious production. It was recorded that items collected during the early years includes:

1.  Broken pieces from the opened kru
2. Soil from the bottom of the kru
3. Seven type of earth from the holy ground
4. Earth known as Sangkhanani soil
5. Earth from Khu Phra Korn Kamphaeng Phet
6. Broken pieces from Rod Maha Wan and the earth from bottom Phra Rod Maha Wan Lamphun
7. Clay, incense, flowers and flowers from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and other temples in the north
8. Powder and 108 herbs from Luang Pho Thira, Wat PaLelai
9. Holy powder from Phra Methi Thammasarn (Luang Pho Sawai), Wat Ban Krang
10. Holy powder from Luang Phor Mui, Wat Don Rai
11. Clay, incense powder and Kesorn flower from North Eastern region temples, Khon Kaen province, Phra That Cho Hae and Thao Suranaree. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com.
12. Buddha amulet from the Kru of Wat Phra Por Suphan
13. Incense powder from various temples; Wat Phra Ruang Rojanit, Wat Phra Pathom Chedi, Wat Phra Non Chak Si, Sing Buri, Wat Phra Non, Wat Phra Chetuphon, Wat Suthat, Wat Phra Attharot, Phitsanulok, Wat Phra Keok and Wat Saket.
14. Clay powder and Kesorn flower from royal chedi, Don Chedi.
15. Seven kind of Earth from Wang Wang, Bang Khun Prom, Wang Burapha, Wang Saranrom, Wang Thewet, Wang Sukhothai, Wang Chan Kasem and the Royal Palace
16. Five type of materials from the Police, Arm Forces, Khun Chang, Khun Bee and Royal Navy.
17. Five earth from underground cave, Saraburi Tham Khao Wang, Phetchaburi, Ratchaburi Khao Tham Chom Phon Kanchanaburi.
18. Sven type of Soil 7 from Sa Kaeo lake, Kaka lake, Yama lake, Ket lake, Nong Luang lake, Lat Sing lake, Suphan Buri, Kosinrai river, Kanchanaburi
19. Seven type of Earth from Tha Chang, Wang Na Tha Ratchaworadit, Tha Sadet, Tha Maka, Tha Muang, Tha Nang Rerng,
20. Sands from Bangsaen Beach, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Prachuap Beach and Phuket

After 11 years, Luang Phor Plat Thawee was satisfied with the collected materials and in B.E 2490 (1947) began grinding and mixing all the sacred materials together and started baking the amulets. The amulets were fired within Wat Ban Krang and  only made on a Saturdays according to ancient text. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com. It was recorded that, in the same year B.E 2490 (1947) during the lunar fifth month, seven reputable monks were invited to the first consecration ceremony for this batch includes:

1. Luang Pho Mui, Wat Don Rai
2. Luang Pho Ta, Wat Phra Loi
3. Luang Pho To, Lat Tan Temple
4. Luang Pho Thirat, Wat Pa Leelai
5. Luang Pho Sawai, Wat Ban Krang
6. Luang Pho Kam, Wat Phutangkur
7. Luang Pho Phang, Wat Suvarnabhumi

A total of 300,000 pieces of Khun Pean were consecrated in that ceremony.

In B.E 2492 (1949), a second consecration Phuttha Phisek ceremony was held to bless the amulets and a ceremony was held to seal all the amulets inside the Kru (pagoda) at Wat BanKrang. This ceremony was attended and blessed by;

1. Ajahn Luang Pho Nam, Wat Don Sala, Phatthalung
2. Luang Pho Phae, Phikun Thong Temple, Sing Buri
3. Luang Pho Plaeng Suvarnabhumi Temple
4. Luang Pho Mui, Don Rai Temple
5. Luang Pho Kaek, Hua Khao Temple
6. Luang Pho Ta, Wat Phra Loi
7. Luang Pho To, Wat Lat Tan
8. Luang Pho Thira, Wat Pa Lelai
9. Luang Pho Kam, Wat Phutangkur
10. Luang Pho Sawai, Ban Krang Temple

The Kru was opened several times since B.E 2492 (1949);

• In the year B.E 2511 (1968), during the Vietnam War had started with conflicts spreading to the nearby country borders. Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn then sent a letter to Wat Wat BanKrang to request for 4,000 pieces of this Khun Pean to be distributed to the soldiers guarding at the borders and supporting in the War effect at the American’s side.

• Field marshal Praphas Charusatien of the Royal Thai Army and minister of interior also requested for 5,000 pieces to be distributed to Royal Thai Army Volunteer Force, or the Black Panthers Brigade soldiers as well. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com. Another 10,060 pieces were presented to the HM King Rama IX.

• In the year B.E 2513 (1970), Col. Surachet of Chiraprawat Sawan Brigade requested the amulets and to be distributed to his 4,500 soldiers. And another 1,500 pieces were presented to the Director Of Operations Aviation Regiment Kamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom.

• In the year B.E 2523 (1980), the Kru was opened and a total of 8,900 pieces were distributed to the Aranyaprathet border soldiers.

• In the year B.E 2524 (1981), the most recent ceremony was held at Wat Ban Krang where 10,000 pieces of this batch of amulets were release for the public to make merit. 

Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com.

FEATURE: Luang Phu Wean, Wat DoiMaePung, Chiang Mai. Rian MahaSathi. B.E 2520 (1977).

Luang Phu Wean, Wat DoiMaePung, Chiang Mai.

Rian Roon MahaSathi MangMee TalaatGaan, B.E 2520 (1977).

Luang Phu Waen Sujinno was born on the 16^th February B.E 2430 (1887) in Tambon Na Pong, Muang District of Loei Province to a blacksmith's family. He studied with several teachers and later ordained as a monk at Wat SaNgaPhaRam in Hua Tapam district of Ubon Ratchathani at the age of 21.

Amongst the teachers he studied with, one of them was Ajarn Mun Bhuridatta Thera in Udon Thani. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com. Luang Phu Waen stayed in Wat Doi Mae Pung permanently during his later years until his passing away in B.E 2528 (1985) at age of 98.

In the year B.E 2520 (1977), Luang Phu wean was requested to create this batch of amulets to raise funds to cast the grand Buddha, fund the building of Samnak for the monks and repair works at Wat SaNgaPhaRam, Ubon Ratchathani.

This batch of rian was named Rian MahaSathi MangMee TalaatGaan which literally means Billionaire Rian For Forever Prosperity. Although it would imply great wealth or fortune with the other side of the Rian featuring the Great Garuda guarding the wealth money bag with Maha Amnaj (charismatic power), I would interpret it as blessing the wearer to continuously bringing in wealth of knowledge and mindfulness in keeping such knowledge one acquire during his or her journey in life.

Rian Roon MahaSathi were blessed individually in three consecration ceremonies during that year in three of the major temples of which two of them are of royal status*:

1. The first consecration ceremony was held at วัดสุทัศน์เทพวราราม Wat Suthat Thepwararam*, Bangkok.
2. The second consecration ceremony was held at วัดเทพศิรินทราวาส Wat Thep Sirintarawat, Bangkok.
3. The last consecration ceremony was held at วัดบวรนิเวศวิหาร Wat Bowonniwet Vihara*, Bangkok.

There were several phims made for this batch of rain namely:

Rian LakChai Maha Sathi, Neaur Thong Deang Galai Thong (Gold plated copper);

• Kamagaan box set consisting of 3 Phims. Made of 999 sets.
• Phim Yai without hook. Made 999 pieces.
• Phim Glang without hook. Made 999 pieces.
• Phim Lek without hook. Made 999 pieces.

Rian LakChai Maha Sathi, Neaur Thong Deang (Copper). Total made 9,999 pieces;

• Phim Yai without hook.   
• Phim Glang without hook.  
• Phim Lek without hook.  

There was no record of how many Rian LakChai Maha Sathi Neaur Loha, Neaur Thong Deang Galai Thong, Neaur Thong Deang Galai Ngern and Neaur Thong Deang Phiu Fai were made, while I would guess at least 9,999 pieces in circulation currently. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com.

I would encourage you to have a try and read “The Life And Teaching of Luang Pu Waen Sucinno” to know more of this guru monk and his teaching while collecting his amulets. The pdf copy of the book (about 13MB) can be freely downloaded from this link;

https://sites.google.com/site/wideanglewilderness/downloads/LifeandTeachingsWEB.pdf?attredirects=1 Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com.

FEATURE: Luang Phu Wean, Wat DoiMaePung, Chiang Mai. Rian Rao Suu. B.E 2520 (1977).

Luang Phu Wean, Wat DoiMaePung, Chiang Mai.

Rian Rao Suu. B.E 2520 (1977).

Luang Phu Waen Sujinno was born on the 16^th February B.E 2430 (1887) in Tambon Na Pong, Muang District of Loei Province to a blacksmith's family. He studied with several teachers and later ordained as a monk at a temple in Hua Tapam district of Ubon Ratchathani at the age of 21. Amongst the teachers he studied with, one of them was Ajarn Mun Bhuridatta Thera in Udon Thani. Luang Phu travelled widely in the Northeast of Thailand in search of isolated places where he could meditate. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com His travels took him to Bangkok where he met Chao Khun Phra Upali Gunupamacariya of Wat Bovoranives where he spent several years studying and practising the Dhamma. Later, Chao Khun Phra Upali took him to Wat Chedi Luang in Chiangmai where Luang Phu Waen decided to make a switch from the Maha Nikaya sect of the Theravada Buddhism to the stricter Dhammayutika Nikaya sect.

Luang Phor Waen travelled extensively by foot through thick jungles and remote mountains and even ventured into Myanmar and India where he paid homage at several historic sacred Buddhist sites. In the year B.E 2538 (1995), because of a foot injury Luang Phu Waen stayed in Wat Doi Mae Pung permanently. Wat Doi Mae Pung then became the residence of Luang Phor Waen until his passing away in B.E 2528 (1985) at age of 98. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

As there was no record of this Somdej was made but it was believed that a limited number of Phra Somdel RatSaMee was made as it is not easy to find in the current market.  The material of this amulet is Neua Din mixed with ashes of the burnt Bilan and Neua Din (earth). Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com This amulet was moulded using stone mould from Luang Phu Thim, as the rays are featured with sharp clear edges. The back of the amulet is smooth with Luang Phor Sakorn hand-written Yant Phra Jao Ha Phra Ohng Namo Phuthaya Ma AWu. As we know, during the later years, he hardly had the opportunity to scribe yant on amulets.

This "Phra Somdej Rasami Roon Reak" is rare and was mentioned in the temple publication that a very small unknown numbers being made and consecrated. Collectors should be conscious and aware of the mould details, material content due to aging and lastly Luang Phor’s handwriting. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

Back in B.E 2516 (1973), Thailand was under constant threat from the border by the raids conducted by Vietnamese due to the on-going Cambodian–Vietnamese War, which was continued from the United States’ Indochina war in Vietnam. Thailand and Vietnam faced off across the Thai-Cambodian border with frequent Vietnamese army incursions and shelling into Thai territory throughout the 1980s in pursuit of Cambodian guerrillas, based within Thai borders, who kept attacking Vietnamese occupation forces.

In early March B.E 2520 (1977), Phra Khru Wibunsilawong (Phra Phrommethi Chamnongthamachari), Phra Khru Ad Paladmethawat (Phra Kru Wimonyanudom Chinthep Chinthevo), Mr. Boonma Phungthong, the  Samphanthawong Association and Mr. Praphat Phunphatthanapreecha went to pay homage to Luang Phu Waen and Phra Ajahn Nu Sujitto, the abbot of Wat Doi Mae Pang. Concerned about the safety of the country and soldier fighting at the borders, Phra Ajahn Nu Sujitto bowed to ask for permission from Luang Phu Waen  to create a batch of Rian for distribution to all soldiers, civilian police officers and people who were fighting for the country. Luang Phu allowed the group to proceed with the project and prepared the necessary so that the soldiers and civilian police officers guarding the country borders could receive the protection from the Rian as soon as possible. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

Mr. Boonma Phuongthong then discussed with Luang Phor Prasong, abbot of Wat Samphanthawong, to assist in the preparation of the consecration ceremony. Wat Samphanthawong was under Luang Phu Wean’s patron and he had helped to build the temple’s facilities since B.E 2512 (1969) for some years. And in the personal way, Luang Phu Waen and Phra Ajahn Nu were familiar with Luang Phor Prasong  and the temple monks at Wat Samphanthawong as well. Thus Wat Samphanthawong together with the Samphanthawong Association assist in the production of the Rian to be shaped like a statue of Luang Pu Waen to be given to the military, civilian police and those who benefit the country.

It was agreed by the committee to adhere strictly to Luang Phu Wean instruction; the Rian would be created to distribute freely. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com No one can sell them and if they do this, they will encounter various disasters.

Wat Samphanthawong and Samphanthawong Association donated funds to finance the production of  Rian Rao Suu (“We Fight") which cost about 250,000 baht during that time. A further contribution of fund was from Rat Bamrung District, Nong Khaem District, Bangkok, Tri Rattanaram Rayong Province, Wat Khiri Phawaram Rayong province, Thai Danu Bank Co., Ltd. and a group of followers near Chit Kui which contributed another 60,000 baht. As such a total of 315,000 baht was raised in this cause.

The committee also announced the purpose of creating Rian Rao Suu (“We Fight") as:

• To distribute to the Army, Naval, Air Force and Civilian Police who perform duties at all border operations.
• To unite all Thais together to preserve the country, religion and monarchy forever.
• As a reminder for Thais to hold on to their belief of the nation’s Independence and to constantly support their soldiers, police, civilians and people guarding and fighting at the border for the country sovereignty .
• To be mindful and ready to defend and fight any enemy that threaten the Thai Kingdom, the Nation, the Religion and HM the King. And thus, the Thai script appeared on the back of the Rian "We fight, fight here, fight here"

Phra Kru Wibunsinwong (Phra Phrommethi Jumnongthamchari) designed the Rian. Created as a round medal, the front of the Rian featured the portrait of Luang Phu Wean facing to the left with the temple name. Also featuring a 5 lotus petals and 5 inverted petals with the Buddha script at the top. At the other side of the Rian, at the top is the Royal Thai Crown representing the HM King of Thailand presiding over the three branches of the arm forces. The Thai army represented with the round emblem seal, the Thai Navy represented with the anchor emblem seal, the Thai Air Force represented with the wing emblem seal, the Thai Police represented with the shield emblem seal and at the center the Garuda representing the protector of the Thai nation. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

In the middle of the Rian was the number 2520 in thai text and the Royal Emblem of King Rama IX radiating like a sun guiding the three branches of the arm forces. The rays were shaped intertwined all around with heart shape representing unity and solidarity of the army, military, police and civilian to protect the monarchy.

The inscription พระพุทธคุณธรรมคุณ Phra BuddhaThammakhun and สังฆคุณ Sangkhakun พุทโธอรหัธมโมอรหัด้า นล่างจารึก Phutthorahamorah including “เราสู้ สู้ตรงนี้ สู้ที่นี้” "We fight, fight here, fight here" indicated that all Thais who in possession of this Rian shall be Ready to fight the dangers The Kingdom(Institution of the Nation, Religion & Monarch)  is facing.

Upon approval from the organizing committee, the Rian was contracted to Phutthamonthon Mongkol factory for moulding. Phra Khru Wibun Sinwong (Phra Phrommethee Jumnongthammachari), Phra Khru Palad Methawat (Provost Wimolyanudom Chinthep Chinthevo) and Mr. Papas Phunphatthanaphonpricha were tasked to oversee the mass production and ensure the quality control for this batch of Rian. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

On 1^st July B.E 2520 (1977), General Kriangsak Chamanan (then prime minister of Thailand from 1977 to 1980) and his military corps brought the Rian to Luang Phu Waen for the consecration ceremony at Wat Doi Mae Pang. Choosen as the auspicious hour, at 08:00am, Luang Phu Waen arrived at the temple to initiate the commencement of the ceremony with General Kriangsak Chamanan, Deputy Commander in Chief of the Army at that time, presided over the candle lighting ritual with 20 monks participating in the chanting.

At 9:40pm, Luang Pho Waen was invited to ascend to the main ceremonial seat for a 12 minutes prayer and the ceremony was completed with the sprinkled of nam-mon (holy blessed water) over this batch of Rian Rao Suu together with some other holy objections that were also blessed at the same time.

It was known that about 19,9480 numbers of Rian Rao Suu were produced in this batch. The following were the distribution records for this batch of rian:

1. 22,000 numbers of Rian (~11%) were offered to His Majesty the King;
2. 60,000 numbers of Rian (~30%) were distributed to the Army, Navy, Air Force and other military branches including the Police and the public under the royal service;
3. 30,000 numbers of Rian (~15%) were offered to Deputy Commander in Chief (General Kriangsak Chamanan) for distribution to those who benefit the nation as it deems appropriate;
4. 5,000 numbers of Rian (~3%) were offered to the Joint Director of Supreme Military Command of Royal Thailand Arm Forces;
5. 5,000 numbers of Rian (~3%) were offered to the Central Administrative Bureau of the Supreme Commander (Central Office) for distribution to all provincial development units officers;
6. 20,000 numbers of Rian (~10%) were offered to Mr Samak Sundaravej, Deputy Interior Minister (was Prime Minister of Thailand and Minister of Defense in 2008) for distribution to the Ministry of Interior;
7. 10,000 numbers of Rian (~5%) were offered to Wat Doi Mae Pang, Chiangmai;
8. 10,000 numbers of Rian (~5%) were offered to Wat Samphanthawong Temple, Bangkok;

The remaining 37,480 numbers of Rian (~18%) were distributed to individuals that had benefit  to the nation as consented by the Committee. As Luang Phu Wean instructed, all the Rian shall not be sold but to distribute freely to all in needs. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

FEATURE: Wat Chinoros, Bangkok. Somdej Kaang Chat Lang Yant, B.E 2512 (1969).

Wat Chinoros, Bangkok. 
Somdej Kaang Chat Lang Yant, B.E 2512 (1969)

Wat Chinorasaram Worawihan (Wat Chinoros), Bangkok hold the status of royal temple since the reign of HM King Rama 3. It was built around B.E 2379 (1836).

During the year B.E 2512 (1969), Wat Chinoros needed to raise fund for the renovation of the temple. The temple began to consecrate many batches of amulets within that year. As Wat Chinoros is a royal temple, the consecration ceremony for this batch of Somdej was considered one of the most grand and proper one during that time. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

This Somdej was quite special as the ceremony was attended by some of the great masters during that era.

The Phra Somdej Kaang Chat Lang Yant was consecrated on the auspicious day when the sun entered on Songkran day on 13^th April B.E 2512 (1969).Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

Many great gurus of that era were invited at the Maha Phusit Cenemory including:

1. Luang Phor Phrom, Wat Chong Kae, Nakhon Sawan (2.4.2426/1883 to 30.1.2518/1975) at the age of 86 years old
2. Luang Phor Toh, Wat Pradochimplee, Bangkok (27.3.2430/1887 to 5.3.2524/1881) at the age of 82 years old
3. Luang Phor Hom, Wat Chaak Mak, Rayong (2433/1890 to 13.4.2520/1977) at the age of 79 years old
4. Phra Ajahn Nam, Wat Don Sala, Phatthaloong (9/8/2434/1891 to 25.10.2519/1976) at the age of 78 years old
5. Luang Phor Guay, Wat Kositaram, Chai Nat (2.11.2448/1905 to 12.4.2522/1979) at the age of 64 years old
6. Luang Phor Sook, Wat Phooh Saai Thong, Buriram
7. Luang Phor Seng, Wat Ganyaaga Thohm, Bangkok
8. Luang Phor Dtaem, Wat Phra Loi, Suphanburi
9. Luang Phor Charoen, Wat Thong Noppakhun, Phetchaburi
10. Luang Phor Tiang, Wat Muang Chom, Kanchanaburi
11. Luang Phor Samian, Wat Nawng Grathom, Chonburi
12. Phra Ajahn Cheunuphet, Wat Saphansung, Bangkok
13. Luang Phor Thong, Wat Gawn Karo, Chachoengsao
14. Luang Phor Thong, Wat Maw Saw, Kanchanaburi
15. Luang Phor Saaen, Wat Tha Nae, Lampang
16. Luang Phor Sook, Wat Ban Dai Thong, Phetburi

As it was told that after the chanting ceremony, Luang Phor Guay stayed behind alone and mediated to further consecrate this batch of Somdej until the next morning. Upon the first light, he opened his eyes and said, “It’s all good now.”. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

FEATURE: Pra Kong Kuang, Luang Phor Sodh, Wat Paknam Roon 4, B.E 2514 (1971).

Luang Phor Sodh, Wat Paknam, Bangkok.
Pra Kong Kuang, Roon 4, B.E 2514 (1971)

Needless to introduce, Wat Paknam amulets are one of the most proven, popular and evergreen amulets that almost all collectors will keep one in his box. As of current year, B.E 2562 (2019), the temple has issued the batch Roon 9 already. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

In the year B.E 2493 (1950) Luang Phor Sodh started creating amulets as gifts for donors who assist in contribution of the building of a large Dhamma school in Wat Paknam. One who donated 25 Baht during that time would receive an amulet as gift from his hand.  It was widely recorded that Luang Phor Sodh (B.E 2427 (1884) to B.E 2502 (1959), chanted and concreted Roon Reak to Roon 3 of Pra Kong Kuang (the Present Buddha) amulets. One of the material Luang Phor Sodh gathered for making these amulets was chalk powder from his good friend Luang Phor Peung from Wat Sawang Arom Rat, Suphan Buri.

It was believed that 10 different moulds had been used for the entire production for each batch of amulets. A total of about 84,000 pieces were made which has a very special meaning in Theravada Buddhism; "84,000 Dhammakkhandha" (Dhamma teachings) which is the traditional Theravada description of the complete Buddha's Teaching. Of course, in the commentaries (atthakatha) it is explained in this way:

-          Sutta pitaka consists of 21,000 Dhammakkhandhas

-          Vinaya pitaka consists of 21,000 Dhammakkhandhas &

-          Abhidhamma pitaka consists of 42,000 Dhammakkhandhas

Roon Reak was released from B.E 2493 (1950). During that era where moulding technique was not perfect and made by hand, this batch was not consistence in appearance, and some were “out-of-shape”. The first batch in B.E 2493, about 40% of the amulets were brushed with lacquer and 60% were unfinished; the second batch in B.E.2494, the same molds as the 1st batch, all amulets brushed with lacquer; and the third batch were made in B.E 2499 (1955), using both old and new moulds. Because it’s very difficult to differentiate the lacquer-brushed amulets between the 1st and 2nd batches, so all lacquer-brushed amulets are assumed as the 1st batch, Roon Reak. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

The 4^th Batch or Roon 4 was called the Roon Tummakan Roon See and created by Luang Por Sodh's disciple Pra Tummatirarah Mahah Munee, the then abbot of Wat Paknam after Luang Por Sod passed away. Roon 4 was chanted for one rain retreat or Khao Phansa which is 3 months in B.E 2514 (1971). The amulets were distributed to lay people on 23th October B.E 2515 (1972). By B.E 2527 (1984), this batch of amulets were completely distributed to devotees after 10 years. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com

The 4^th Batch or Roon 4, is more appealing to collectors due to a few reasons although the price factor is the primarily consideration.  Other than the basic similar ingredients from previous batches, Roon 4 consisted of mixed broken or rejected pieces of the Roon 1, 2 and 3. Roon 4 was also designed to be larger in size compared to earlier Roon 3 where the dimensions were perfect for daily wearing. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com. Also, another reason was that a significant advanced in perfecting the mould, after 3 batches, resulted in better detailed forming in pressing and texture of the final products. All these factors proved to be a popular choice for both wearers and collectors.

It was also widely believed by most Thais that earlier batch of Roon 4 released in B.E 2514 (1971) was the last batch that were blessed and chanted by Luang Phor Sodh. There were later batch also known as Roon 4 that was released after B.E 2514 (1971).  

FEATURE: Luang Phor Sakorn, Wat Nong Grap, Phra Somdej RatSaMee. B.E 2503 (1960).

“Phra Somdej RatSaMee (Ray of Light) Roon Reak” 

Luang Phor Sakorn Wat Nong Grap, Rayong.
Phra Somdej RatSaMee (Ray of Light) Roon Reak “พระสมเด็จรัศมี รุ่นแรก”. B.E 2503-08 (1960-65)

This amulet was consecrated for a period of about 5 years between B.E 2503 to 2508 (1960 to 1965) in Wat Lahairai, Rayong, together with Luang Phu Thim.  It was during the period when Luang Phor Sakorn, was still a devoted student of Luang Phor Thim, spent his rain retreats in Wat Lahairai. However, it should be noted that this Somdej is widely recorded to be made in B.E 2503 (1960). Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com.

In the year B.E 2508 (1965) when Luang Phor Sakorn moved to Wat Nong Grap to become the temple abbot, he then asked Luang Phu Thim permission to distribute this batch of Somdej in Wat Nong Grap instead to raise fund for the rebuilt of burnt temple courtyard in Wat Nong Grap.

As there was no record of this Somdej was made but it was believed that a limited number of Phra Somdel RatSaMee was made as it is not easy to find in the current market.  The material of this amulet is Neua Din mixed with ashes of the burnt Bilan and Neua Din (earth). Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com. This amulet was moulded using stone mould from Luang Phu Thim, as the rays are featured with sharp clear edges. The back of the amulet is smooth with Luang Phor Sakorn hand-written Yant Phra Jao Ha Phra Ohng Namo Phuthaya Ma AWu. As we know, during the later years, he hardly had the opportunity to scribe yant on amulets.

This "Phra Somdej Rasami Roon Reak" is rare and was mentioned in the temple publication that a very small unknown numbers being made and consecrated. Collectors should be conscious and aware of the mould details, material content due to aging and lastly Luang Phor’s handwriting. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com.

FEATURE: Luang Phor Wean, Wat DoiMaePung, Rian AnamaiPhro B.E 2517 (1974).

Luang Phor Wean, Wat Wat DoiMaePung, Chiang Mai.

Rian AnamaiPhro B.E 2517 (1974).

Luang Phor Waen Sujinno was born on the 16^th February B.E 2430 (1887) in Tambon Na Pong, Muang District of Loei Province to a blacksmith's family. He was named Yarn and had one elder sister. He ordained as a novice monk in 1892 at Wat Bodhi Chai in Na Pong at the age of 9 to fulfill the wish of his mother, when she suddenly died, while Luang Phor Waen was 5 years old. He studied with a number of teachers and later ordained as a monk at a temple in Hua Tapam district of Ubon Ratchathani at the age of 21. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com.

Amongst the teachers he studied with, one of them was Ajarn Mun Bhuridatta Thera in Udon Thani who taught him the virtues of the pursuance of a secluded life and the practice of meditation and Dhamma in the jungles. Subsequently, Luang Pu traveled widely in the Northeast of Thailand in search of isolated places where he could meditate. Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com. His travels took him to Bangkok where he metChao Khun Phra Upali Gunupamacariya of Wat Bovoranives in B.E 2464 (1921) with whom Luang Pu Waen spent several years studying and practising the Dhamma. Later, Chao Khun Phra Upali took him to Wat Chedi Luang in Chiangmai where Luang Pu Waen decided to make a switch from the Maha Nikaya sect of the Theravada Buddhism to the stricter Dhammayutika Nikaya sect.

Luang Phor Waen travelled extensively by foot through thick jungles and remote mountains and even ventured into Myanmar and India where he paid homage at several historic sacred Buddhist sites. In the year B.E (1995), news of a foot injury sustained during his stay in the seclusion at Wat Paa Ban Pong in Mae Taeng District, Chiangmai, reached Ajarn Noo Suchito of Wat Doi Mae Pang, who later arranged for Luang Phor Waen to stay in Wat Doi Mae Pang permanently. Wat Doi Mae Pang then became the residence of Luang Phor Waen until his passing away in B.E 2528 (1985) at age of 98.

Luang Phor Waen was widely rumoured to possess the mystical power to float in the air, to cure illness and to energize amulets that protected the wearer from bullets and knives. General Kriangsak Chamanand, supreme commander of the armed forces in B.E 2522 (1979) gave Thai soldiers amulets of Luang Phor Waen to protect them against what he described as Thailand's greatest enemy at that time, the Communist Party.  Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com. The King in B.E 2521 (1978) sponsored a medallion with the images of Luang Phor Waen and the royal crown which was sold to pay for the construction of several hospitals. The popular amulets were distributed through banks and businesses and raised billions of baht.

Luang Phor Waen became popular when a pilot of the Royal Thai Air Force was flying a plane and he suddenly noticed a monk sitting meditating outside his cabin. Yet he thought that was strange and he told people about it when he got back but no one knew who it could have been. He was interested, then he got his maps out, looked at where he had been flying and calculated that he had been flying over Doi Mae Pang when it happened. So he went back and talked to the villagers. They told him that Luang Phor Waen was the monk they most respected and he decided it must be him. Besdies, Luang Phor Waen meditates regularly and that makes him "extraordinary". Since after that incident, he has been famous all over Thailand.  Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com.

Though he didn't like fame, this incident made him the most popular monk of Thailand in that decade. He attracted the Royal Patronage and King Bhumipol became a closer devotee of Luang Phor Waen. In the latter period of his life, the abbot of his resident monastery 'Wat Doi Mae Pang' had to limit and control the number of people who came to visit Luang Phor Waen.

One day, a doctor had got a rare chance to ask from him about the incident of the air-force pilot. 'Do you think I'm a bird' - was the reply of Luang Por.

This Rian AnamaiPhro batch of amulet was requested by villagers from "Phro" district (Chiang Mai) in B.E 2517 (1974) when Luang Phor was at an age of 87. The chief village name "Artdison Matniwong" came to LP Waen and request Luang Phor Waen to fund money for a clinic in district "Phro". During that time money for this batch of amulet sold full amount was used to build the clinic. This batch was made with the purest intention to help rebuilt a rundown clinic. This clinic located in a remote area of Thailand was the only medical facility the villagers had access to.  Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com. But in order to serve the villagers, the management of the clinic had to renovate and purchase many new equipment. But money was an issue and they had no other avenues to raise funds, so they seek permission from Luang Phor Waen to use his image for this batch of amulets. Hearing the purpose of this batch, Luang Phor Waen gave them his permission and blessed this batch of amulet for the longest time ever.

This rian is no longer with me as it was meant to be a gift to a very good buddy of mine.

There is an article from J.M. Cadet’s book “Monks, Mountains and Magic, Chiang Mai, 1990”, Visiting a Famous Monk in Northern Thailand, which is linked here as an interesting read. http://www.chiangmaitouristguide.com/03-2009/feature1.html Copyright ZapMonster Amulet Tale zapmonster.blogspot.com.