Phra Sila Khao Phuttarawadi Pim Lek Nur Phong Namon BE2509, Luang Phor Tae (Lp Tae), Wat Sam Ngam

Biography

 

Phra Silakhao Phuttarawadi – Wat Sam Ngam

Material: Powder-based with oil

Creator: Luang Phor Tae Kongthong (Lp Tae)

Temple: Wat Sam Ngam (Wat Aranyikaram), Nakhon Pathom

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Historical Origins of Phra Silakhao (White Stone Buddha Image)

Phra Silakhao is a revered Buddha image depicting the First Sermon Mudra (Dharmachakra Mudra). It is one of four large stone Buddha images believed to have been constructed during the Dvaravati Period (approx. BE 1100–1600). The sculpture stands 3.36 meters tall (from crown to feet) and is considered one of the most sacred ancient artifacts found in Nakhon Pathom.

Sculptural Details:

• Seated posture with legs dangling (rare style).

• Smooth monk robe (without pleats), covering one shoulder.

• Robe hem arcs gently over the center of the legs.

• Seated on a lotus base of “upturned and downturned petals” (yak’s fang lotus).

• Left hand resting palm-up on the left thigh (gesture of teaching).

• Right hand raised to chest level, palm outward with thumb and index touching (gesture of giving blessings).

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Rediscovery of Phra Silakhao

In BE 2404, Phra Palad Thong and Samana Boon (later known as Luang Pu Boon, a royal-grade monk and abbot of Wat Klang Bang Kaew) were helping restore Wat Phra Pathom Chedi. While transporting bricks from Wat Thung Phra Meru, they discovered a massive white termite mound with a visible part of a Buddha’s crown protruding.

Upon excavation, they uncovered the Phra Silakhao Buddha Image, segmented in large jointed parts, which was then enshrined in the ordination hall (ubosot) at Wat Phra Pathom Chedi.

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The 5 Buddha Statues & Theravāda Beliefs

During the excavation, five stone Buddha images were discovered. These are believed to represent the Five Buddhas of the Theravāda “Bhadrakalpa” Era:

1. Phra Kakusandha – North

2. Phra Konāgamana – East

3. Phra Kassapa – South

4. Phra Sakyamuni (Gautama Buddha) – West

5. Phra Ariya Metteyya (Metteyya Buddha) – Future Buddha

It is believed that the green stone Buddha with layered robes represents Metteyya, found at Wat Phra Meru, currently enshrined in Wat Na Phra Meru, Ayutthaya.

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Amulet Creation at Wat Sam Ngam

In BE 2472, Wat Sam Ngam reproduced the Phra Silakhao image in the form of sacred amulets, using:

• Traditional Dvaravati-style casting methods.

• Materials such as metal, baked clay, and sacred powder.

• The image of Phra Silakhao as the template.

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Role of Luang Phor Tae Kongthong

Luang Phor Tae was a highly respected monk famous for his expertise in creating sacred objects, both in form and substance, to inspire mindfulness and spiritual strength.

He was meticulous in his Buddha image consecration ceremonies, frequently inviting his fellow Dhamma masters and prominent monks to join. These included:

• Luang Phor Ngoen, Wat Don Yai Hom

• Luang Phor Noi, Wat Thammasala

• Luang Pu Perm, Wat Klang Bang Kaew

• Luang Pu Toh, Wat Pradoochimplee

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Legacy

The Phra Silakhao amulets and their larger image continue to serve as an anchor of faith, healing, and historical reverence for devotees. The spiritual aura of Luang Phor Tae and his contemporaries still inspires deep respect for the Theravāda Buddhist lineage and the preservation of ancient Dvaravati-style sacred art.