Phra Sankajai Bucha BE2536 Wat Suthat Sao Ha Code 30 (7 Inch Lap) 999 pieces made

Phra Sankajai Bucha BE2536 Wat Suthat Sao Ha Code 30 (7 Inch Lap) 999 pieces made

Sangkachai Buddha Statue – “Saturday the 5th” Edition, Wat Suthat Thepwararam (B.E. 2536 / 1993)

This Sangkachai Buddha statue was created in B.E. 2536 (1993) by Wat Suthat Thepwararam, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok, on an exceptionally auspicious date—Saturday, March 27, 1993, which coincided with the 5th waxing moon of the 5th lunar month in the Year of the Rooster. According to ancient tradition, such a date—“Saturday the 5th”—is considered extremely powerful for conducting sacred consecration ceremonies. It is believed that Buddha images blessed on this day carry particularly strong spiritual energy, with the incantations enhancing their sacred potency far beyond normal occasions.

Two sizes of Sangkachai Buddha statues were created during this special event:

• Small size: 3-inch lap width

• Large size: 7-inch lap width

Both versions were strictly limited to 999 pieces each.

The statue was cast from an alloy mixed with sacred materials, including metal from old bell-shaped Buddha statues and sacred remnants historically associated with Wat Suthat Thepwararam.

Each statue bears a stamped code “U A Ka Sa”, arranged in a circular pattern in front of the Arabic serial number stamped (not engraved) on the front middle section of the lowest base tier. Underneath the base, each statue also contains a Luang Por Ngern coin from Wat Bang Khlan, specially cast in the same year at Wat Suthat to enhance auspiciousness related to wealth and prosperity. The coin features a “Na” character stamped above Luang Por Ngern’s head.

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Unique Design and Casting Details

The “Saturday the 5th” Sangkachai statue was among the very few models that were cast directly at Wat Suthat, not outsourced to a third-party foundry. It underwent three separate grand consecration ceremonies at the temple itself, reinforcing its sacred stature.

This model retains all signature design characteristics of the traditional Wat Suthat style:

• Flat, multi-tiered base with recessed corners visible only at the front-left and front-right

• Two recessed layers per side on both upper and lower platforms

• Bottom-most base curving inward around the perimeter, forming a distinct contour

• Classic plump face and compassionate smile representative of Sangkachai’s iconography

These features are hallmarks of Wat Suthat’s unique casting style and distinguish the temple’s lineage from other interpretations.

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Historical Lineage and Connection to Luang Por Ngern

Wat Suthat has a long-standing connection to Luang Por Ngern of Wat Bang Khlan. In B.E. 2515, Phra Khru Phibun Thammawet (Luang Por Preung), then abbot of Wat Bang Khlan, used casting materials and formulas learned from Wat Suthat for his amulets. These were later brought back to Wat Suthat for final consecration—establishing a spiritual and ritual link between both temples.

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Symbolism and Legacy of Phra Sangkachai

Phra Sangkachai is revered as a monk who symbolizes fortune, popularity, and abundance. Initially described as exceptionally handsome with radiant golden skin, his appearance was said to distract people—especially women—from their spiritual practice. To resolve this, he requested permission from the Buddha to change his form.

He then transformed himself into the iconic round-bellied figure we recognize today—holding his own stomach, yet radiating kindness and joy. Despite no longer possessing external beauty, his popularity remained strong due to his inner virtue and compassion. He became a symbol of abundance, comparable to Phra Sivali, the arahant of fortune.

When Phra Sivali was absent from alms rounds, the Buddha would appoint Phra Sangkachai to accompany the Sangha instead. His presence ensured the monks would still receive plentiful offerings, even in sparsely populated areas.

Today, statues of Phra Sangkachai are commonly worshipped in homes, shops, and businesses as symbols of good luck, prosperity, and growing success—thanks to the combined blessings of the Buddha, the monk’s virtue, and the faith of the worshipper.