Phra Somdej Phutta Archan Toh Wat Rakhang Nur Phong 118th Anniversary Edition (B.E. 2533)

Phra Somdej Phutta Archan Toh Wat Rakhang Nur Phong 

118th Anniversary Edition (B.E. 2533)

Phra Somdej Wat Rakhang – 118th Anniversary Edition (B.E. 2533)

Background & Purpose

This special edition was created to honor the 118th birthday of Somdej Phra Buddhacharya (To Phrommarangsi). The grand consecration ceremony took place on Saturday, June 22, B.E. 2533 (1990). Its primary aim was to raise funds for restoring the sermon hall of Wat Rakhang—a significant historical site—ensuring its preservation in authentic form.

Consecration Ceremony

The event featured both Buddhist and Brahmin rites, with Somdej Phra Yansangwon, the Supreme Patriarch, leading the ceremonial candle-lighting (victory candle) ritual. Over 120 prominent monastic figures participated in meditation and blessings, including:

• Luang Por Mee, Wat Maravichai

• Luang Por Uttamu, Wat Wiwek

• Luang Por Tim, Wat Phra Khao

• Luang Por Mian, Wat Pho

• Additional respected masters drawn from the core lineage of Somdej To craftsmanship, helping honor his legacy and empower the amulets with deep spiritual force

Sacred Artifacts Produced

A variety of sacred objects were crafted for this edition:

• Powder amulets, metal amulets, Buddha images, and commemorative coins

• Five distinct amulet prints, each created with a fresh mold:

  1. Phra Somdej Prathan (large principal image)

  2. Phra Somdej Prak Bodhi (post-Bodhi posture)

  3. Phra Somdej Than Sam (triple-tiered base)

  4. Phra Somdej Khanaen

  5. Phra Somdej To (Somdej To imagery)

These items were produced using mixes of auspicious substances, including sacred powders from earlier Phra Somdej editions—especially “old amulet powders” from Wat Rakhang and remnants of Somdej To’s original figures—imbuing each amulet with historic resonance

Significance in the Amulet Tradition

Phra Somdej Wat Rakhang holds a distinguished place in Thai Buddhist art, often called the “King of Amulets.” It belongs to the revered Benjapakee set—a collection of the five most sacred amulets in Thailand—valued for their profound spiritual power and artistic merit

Summary

The 118th-anniversary edition reflects a thoughtful blending of spiritual devotion, cultural heritage, and monastic unity. Produced with sacred materials, sanctified during a major royal-watched event, and carved in homage to Somdej To’s legacy, this edition is deeply revered for both its artistic craftsmanship and spiritual potency—continuing to captivate collectors and followers of Thai amulet tradition.