Phra Somdej Hubaysri Pim Yai — Luang Pu Hin, Wat Rakang • BE 2495
Wat Rakang Kositaram, Bangkok • Nur Phong
Historical Significance
Issued in B.E. 2495 (1952 CE) at Wat Rakang Kositaram, this Phra Somdej Hubaysri Pim Yai by Luang Pu Hin belongs to the post–Second World War revival of Somdej-lineage sacred powder amulets. In that era, Bangkok devotees strongly sought protection and stability, and the Hubaysri “big ear” image — known among Chinese-Thai collectors as Da Er Somdej (大耳崇迪) — became popular for its distinctive facial form and auspicious appearance. The batch was empowered through formal Putthapisek (consecration rite) at Wat Rakang, continuing the spiritual heritage of Somdej Phra Phutthachan Toh’s lineage.
Reverse — Nur Phong stratification, natural aging points and gentle powder shrinkage along the edges.
Contextual Insight: The Hubaysri Pim Yai is one of the most recognisable Somdej forms in Luang Pu Hin’s repertoire, noted for its enlarged ears and slightly rounded facial profile. Collectors value this batch as a bridge between the classic 19th-century Wat Rakang Somdej of Somdej Toh and the 20th-century Bangkok sacred powder tradition, where wicha (esoteric method) and inherited powders from earlier monks were carefully preserved and re-used in new consecrations.
Temple of Origin & Master’s Discipline
Wat Rakang Kositaram in Bangkok is the historic stronghold of the Somdej Phra Phutthachan Toh lineage, renowned for Phra Somdej Wat Rakang and strict observance of monastic discipline. Within this environment, Luang Pu Hin maintained a practice rooted in scriptural study, meditation, and careful ritual discipline. The making of Somdej under his care followed the tradition of sakun phra somdej (“Somdej-style school”), where proportion, posture and the sacred powder recipe had to reflect both aesthetic restraint and doctrinal symbolism.
Obverse close-up — stepped base, proportion of torso and the characteristic “big ears” provide key Hubaysri Pim Yai identification points.
Materials & Craftsmanship
| Material | Nur Phong Somdej — sacred powder blend associated with Wat Rakang: old temple powders, scripture dust (bailan fragments), incense ash and sanctified soils, pressed into a compact tablet. |
| Mold / Pim | Hubaysri Pim Yai (“big-ear large mold”) — tall three-stepped base, upright Buddha in meditation, broad shoulders and enlarged ears. Typical size ranges around 3.5–4.0 cm in height, slightly thicker than many standard Somdej pims. |
| Consecration | Blessed in Putthapisek ceremony at Wat Rakang in B.E. 2495, with continuous chanting of Somdej kata and traditional protective verses. The emphasis was on mettā, protection in daily life, and remembrance of the Somdej lineage masters. |
Detail study — powder grain, micro-pits and natural wear patterns help distinguish genuine age from artificial aging.
Spiritual Function & Doctrinal Purpose
According to Thai Buddhist belief, this Somdej supports a combination of Metta Mahaniyom (loving-kindness and popularity), Klaew Klaad (evasion of danger and accidents) and Maha Lap (good fortune and opportunities). Devotees commonly wear Luang Pu Hin’s Hubaysri Pim Yai for smoother dealings with superiors, stabilising household fortune and travelling with a calmer heart. Doctrinally, the seated Buddha on the ascending steps reminds the wearer of gradual cultivation on the path — each “step” symbolising morality, concentration and wisdom.
Rarity & Collector Significance
Within Luang Pu Hin’s Somdej output, the Hubaysri Pim Yai BE 2495 is generally regarded as collector-grade, especially in sharp, unrestored condition. Collectors look for: correct Hubaysri facial form, natural Nur Phong aging (no “dead powder” feeling), proper reverse shrinkage, and the characteristic Wat Rakang press rhythm. Well-preserved examples appear in serious collections and reference circles, and are viewed as a more accessible alternative to older Somdej Wat Rakang pieces while still carrying the Bangkok Somdej lineage flavour.
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Disclaimer: The information here supports cultural and academic appreciation of Thai Buddhist material heritage. Details on authentication and provenance aid study and personal appreciation, and are not legal or forensic certification.