Phra Somdej Saiyid 9 Chan BE2500-2525 Nur Phong Luang Pu Chan (Lp Chan) Wat Chalok Lam (Koh Phangan), Surat Thani Province
Phra Somdej Saiyid 9 Chan
B.E. 2500–2525
Material: Nur Phong (Sacred Powder)
Created by Luang Pu Chan, Wat Chalok Lam, Koh Phangan, Surat Thani Province
1. Historical Background
Phra Somdej Saiyid 9 Chan is a rare and spiritually significant amulet created by the venerable Luang Pu Chan during his time as abbot of Wat Chalok Lam, located on the island of Koh Phangan in southern Thailand. The amulets were produced over a 25-year span between B.E. 2500 and B.E. 2525 (1957–1982), reflecting the monk’s long-term dedication to spiritual work and the well-being of his disciples.
Wat Chalok Lam is one of the most historically respected temples on Koh Phangan. It served as both a place of religious refuge and spiritual healing under Luang Pu Chan’s leadership. His efforts to preserve Buddhist practice and support local communities led to the creation of sacred objects like the Saiyid 9 Chan amulets.
2. Description of the Amulet
Design and Mold
The amulet follows the traditional Phra Somdej style, depicting the Buddha seated in meditation posture atop a nine-tiered throne. The nine layers, or “Saiyid 9 Chan”, represent the nine progressive stages of enlightenment, and also resonate with auspicious numerology in Thai and Buddhist traditions.
Material Composition
The amulets are made from Nur Phong, a sacred powder composed of carefully selected ingredients such as:
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Crushed old amulets and votive tablets
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Sacred soils from temple grounds
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Ashes from prayer offerings and incense
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Holy herbs and pollen
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Powdered scriptures and chant remnants
These ingredients were mixed, molded, and pressed by hand before undergoing a thorough consecration process.
Dimensions and Variations
Sizes vary slightly depending on the mold and batch, though most remain consistent with the standard Somdej proportions, rectangular in shape, and slightly thick to accommodate the layered base design.
3. Consecration and Blessing
The amulets were individually consecrated in multiple sessions over the two-and-a-half-decade period. Each batch was blessed with traditional Buddhist mantras, including the Itthipiso and Metta Sutta, chanted continuously over days and nights. Luang Pu Chan, known for his meditative depth and silent retreats, was believed to have infused each piece with protective spiritual energy through direct concentration and repetitive chanting.
The consecration process followed southern Thai magical and monastic traditions, combining both Khao Or techniques and classical meditation-based blessings.
4. Believed Spiritual Benefits
The Phra Somdej Saiyid 9 Chan is reputed to offer strong spiritual and worldly benefits to its wearer, including:
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Protection from danger, harm, accidents, and spiritual interference
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Enhancement of one’s authority and leadership, especially in administrative or teaching roles
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Metta Mahaniyom (loving-kindness), attracting goodwill and support from others
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Improvement of fortune, wealth, and business opportunities
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Support in meditation and Dhamma practice by invoking mental clarity and spiritual grounding
5. Rarity and Collectibility
Due to the gradual production over 25 years, each batch was relatively small, especially those from the early period (BE2500s). Most amulets were distributed among local followers and devotees from surrounding islands, making them relatively unknown outside the region until recent years.
Amulets that have been well preserved, especially those with clear mold details, intact edges, and known provenance from Koh Phangan collectors or temple archives, are now highly valued by serious collectors and Buddhist practitioners.
The reputation of Luang Pu Chan as a southern meditation monk adds significant spiritual heritage to each piece. Many of the surviving amulets are now accompanied by collector verification or temple records to confirm authenticity.
6. Legacy of Luang Pu Chan
Luang Pu Chan is remembered as one of the most respected monks in southern Thailand during the mid-20th century. His quiet leadership, deep meditation practice, and commitment to community service made him a spiritual cornerstone of Koh Phangan. The Saiyid 9 Chan amulets remain a lasting representation of his teachings, his protection, and his blessings for future generations.
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