Phra Somdej Prok Pho Nur Din BE2475 Luang Phor Thongkham Wat Chao Chet Nai, Ayutthaya

Phra Somdej Prok Pho B.E. 2475 

Monk: Luang Phor Thongkham Tisso (LP Thongkham)

Temple: Wat Chao Chet Nai, Ayutthaya

Circa: B.E. 2475 (1932 CE) | Material: Nur Din (Ancient Fired Clay) 

Introduction: The Venerable Phra Somdej Prok Pho B.E. 2475

The Phra Somdej Prok Pho (Buddha seated under the Bodhi Tree or Naga canopy) consecrated in B.E. 2475 is a highly respected amulet from the revered master Luang Phor Thongkham Tisso of Wat Chao Chet Nai, Ayutthaya Province. This ancient amulet, crafted from Nur Din (ancient fired clay), captures the powerful spiritual imagery of the Buddha protected by a canopy, symbolizing ultimate protection and the attainment of enlightenment. Originating from an era rich in traditional amulet-making, this piece is known among collectors for its deep spiritual heritage, offering the wearer strong Klaew Klad (safety from danger) and enhancing mental resilience.

Figure 1: Front view of the Phra Somdej Prok Pho B.E. 2475 in Nur Din (Fired Clay).

Historical Context of Wat Chao Chet Nai

The creation of this Phra Somdej in B.E. 2475 places it in a historical period characterized by strong monastic traditions and the preservation of sacred knowledge in the Ayutthaya region. Luang Phor Thongkham was a pivotal figure at Wat Chao Chet Nai, guiding the community and sustaining the temple through his spiritual wisdom. This amulet batch was crafted not merely as a keepsake but as a spiritual anchor for the local devotees, connecting them directly to the Buddha's protective power, as represented by the Prok Pho (Naga protector) motif.

Purpose of Creation

The purposes of making the amulet by Luang Phor Thongkham were rooted in compassion and the need to fortify the faithful:

• Created as a sacred object for worship and protection during Luang Phor Thongkham’s time at Wat Chao Chet Nai.
• Offered to commemorate and strengthen the spiritual foundation of the temple and its community.
• Made available to lay devotees, pilgrims, and students as a talisman of faith and a source of spiritual merit.

Materials & Craftsmanship: The Power of Nur Din

This amulet is famously crafted from Nur Din (ancient fired clay), a traditional material that gives the piece its distinct earthy tones and rugged texture.

• Material Composition: Crafted from a special Nur Din formulation by Luang Phor Thongkham and his disciples, often containing sacred earth, pollens, and ashes.
• Design: Features a detailed Prok Pho design—the Buddha seated beneath a seven-headed Naga—symbolizing protection and spiritual strength.
• Variations: Some examples depict a lion (Singha) on the reverse, indicating regional influences or variations in the molds used during the B.E. 2475 production run.
• Characteristics: Typically found in clay tones ranging from pale beige to earthy brown. Considered an original-type amulet, distinguished by the pronounced Naga hood and traditional Prok Pho posture.

Figure 2: Close-up of the front, detailing the Prok Pho (Naga) canopy.

Figure 3: Side profile showing the thickness and pressing marks.

Figure 4: Reverse side, which may feature an embossed symbol like the Singha (lion).

Consecration and Spiritual Empowerment

Amulets from Luang Phor Thongkham are known for their profound blessings, rooted in traditional Ayutthaya spiritual practices. The B.E. 2475 batch underwent an intense consecration ritual, adhering to the ancient Wicha (magical knowledge) passed down through generations.

• Master's Focus: The amulets were personally blessed by Luang Phor Thongkham, a master highly skilled in Meditation (Samadhi) and the invocation of the protective power of the Naga.
• Rituals: Consecration involved focused chanting of sacred Pali Sutras and the use of the Prok Pho Yantra to imbue the clay with protective and fortune-enhancing energy.

Spiritual Significance & Benefits

The benefits and advantages of wearing the Phra Somdej Prok Pho are centered around protection and influence, making it highly valuable in daily life.

Protection and Resilience

• Ultimate Protection (Klaew Klad): Devotees revere it for its protective power, specifically providing safety from physical harm, accidents, and malevolent forces.
• Mental Fortitude: Known for enhancing mental resilience and calmness in meditation practice, helping the wearer remain unshaken by life's difficulties.

Fortune and Social Charm

• How it brings wealth and nobleman support: It is believed to enhance the wearer's destiny and charisma, attracting favorable opportunities for financial stability and drawing the support of powerful or influential nobleman figures in business and social spheres.
• How it brings love and kindness from people: The amulet is imbued with Metta Mahaniyom (great kindness), ensuring the wearer is well-liked, respected, and receives goodwill from others, which is vital for smooth social interactions and successful ventures.
• How it brings attraction to the opposite sex: This charm extends into Maha Saney (attraction) qualities. The strong benevolent aura increases personal magnetism, aiding in social, romantic success, and fostering attraction to the opposite sex.

Rarity and Collectibility

The Phra Somdej Prok Pho B.E. 2475 holds significant collectible value due to its age, material, and association with the respected master. Why it is rare is due to these factors:

• Age and Material: Being crafted from ancient Nur Din in B.E. 2475, the survival rate of pieces in good condition is naturally low, leading to increasing scarcity.
• Provincial Master: It comes from a specific master in Ayutthaya rather than a widely distributed Central Thai temple, limiting the original batch size.
• User Practice: Some users train-strengthen the clay amulet through routine use and touch, resulting in a richer patina and improved spiritual resonance, meaning well-developed pieces are highly prized and rarely leave private collections.

Summary and Conclusion

The B.E. 2475 Phra Somdej Prok Pho by Luang Phor Thongkham is a deeply cherished amulet in central Thailand, embodying protective blessings and silent spiritual power. Crafted from sacred Nur Din and rooted in the ancient Naga-Protector tradition, it continues to inspire faith and reverence in those who cherish Wat Chao Chet Nai’s sacred legacy. This piece is a powerful talisman for comprehensive well-being, offering protection, charisma, and support for fortune and destiny.

Related Links

 
• Biography of Luang Phor Thongkham Tisso
 
• More Phra Somdej Amulets
 
• Other Wat Chao Chet Nai Amulets