Archan Nong Dhammabhūto Wat Sai Khao

Biography and Legacy of Ajahn Nong (Phra Ajahn Nong Dhammabhūto), Wat Sai Khao

1. Personal and Monastic Background

Ajahn Nong, also known as Archan Nong of Wat Sai Khao, was born in B.E. 2462 (1919) and passed away in B.E. 2542 (1999) at the age of 80. He was revered as the second-most significant master of Luang Phor Thuad amulets in Thailand, often honored as the “King of Takrut” (Sacred Scroll Charms).

In his early years, Ajahn Nong trained at Wat Narnalu, where he practiced alongside other highly respected monks, including Ajahn Tim and Luang Phor Kern. He later joined Ajahn Tim at Wat Changhai, the foremost temple renowned for Luang Phor Thuad, sharing a common spiritual lineage and close friendship.

Ajahn Tim eventually became the abbot of Wat Changhai, while Ajahn Nong took on leadership at the nearby Wat Sai Khao, although he continued serving as Deputy Abbot of Wat Changhai until B.E. 2534. During this period, he frequently returned to Wat Changhai to assist in temple affairs and blessing ceremonies—especially for amulet consecrations.

---

2. Amulet Production and Relationship with Ajahn Tim

Due to the close spiritual relationship between Ajahn Nong and Ajahn Tim, many amulets during that era were simultaneously available at both Wat Changhai and Wat Sai Khao. The two masters traveled together to deepen their studies, including receiving teachings from Luang Phor Nak of Wat Rakang, a direct spiritual descendant of Somdej Toh, especially in the sacred science of amulet consecration.

After Ajahn Tim passed away in B.E. 2511 (1968), Ajahn Nong refrained from creating further Luang Phor Thuad amulets, fearing public criticism that he might be trying to replace his mentor. However, in B.E. 2514 (1971), Ajahn Tim appeared to him in a dream and encouraged him to continue the sacred work. This led to the creation of several renowned batches, including those from B.E. 2514, 2534, and 2540.

Ajahn Nong had previously participated in the consecration of the famed B.E. 2497 batch and was intimately familiar with the sacred materials and procedures. To honor his late friend’s wishes, he created a batch in B.E. 2514 using ingredients nearly identical to the B.E. 2497 edition, although he personally prepared the materials this time, as the earlier stock had been exhausted by B.E. 2505. One of the most famous pieces from his production, the “M16 batch” from B.E. 2534, gained fame for surviving M16 rifle fire without damage—widely regarded as a testament to its sacred power.

---

3. The Sacred 9-Piece Set and Spiritual Experiences

One of Ajahn Nong’s most iconic releases was a 9-piece Luang Phor Thuad set in B.E. 2540, crafted from sacred powders with a solid gold Takrut embedded in the base. This limited edition—999 sets only—included 9 Buddha images and a special “cartridge Takrut”, referred to in Thai as “Narai Ban Norn”, meaning “limitless transformation.”

It is widely believed that during one of the nighttime consecration ceremonies, the spirit of Luang Phor Thuad descended upon the temple, casting a towering shadow of the saint onto the walls, witnessed by those present.

The sacred materials used were of exceptional quality, and the rituals performed for this set were considered on par with the legendary B.E. 2497 batch, making it one of the most sought-after post-1970 Luang Phor Thuad amulet sets.

---

4. Protection and Sacred Power

Ajahn Nong’s amulets became revered not only because of his mastery and strong lineage, but also due to his exclusive spiritual technique. Legend has it that during a deep meditative state, he received a powerful mantra and esoteric method from the Thai goddess Mae Nang Jam.

This secret heart mantra, according to tradition, could repel and reflect black magic and harmful curses, inflicting karmic return to the sender. It bore remarkable resemblance to the anti-black magic techniques taught by Luang Phor Doem of Wat Nong Pho. Ajahn Nong never shared this mantra with anyone, and it was lost with his passing, enhancing the mystique surrounding his amulets.

---

5. Caution in the Marketplace

Due to their high demand and fame, many counterfeits exist—particularly of the B.E. 2497–2505 Luang Phor Thuad batches. Unscrupulous sellers may attempt to pass off newer editions (e.g., post-B.E. 2539 temple-issued amulets) as early Wat Changhai productions. True B.E. 2497 pieces are valued above THB 200,000 (approx. HKD 50,000), and even with money, they can be extremely difficult to acquire. Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was famously known to wear one.

---

6. Final Years and Passing

Ajahn Nong passed away peacefully in B.E. 2542 (1999) at the age of 80. His amulets remain some of the most respected and powerful sacred objects in Thailand, especially for protection, prosperity, safety from harm, and reversal of curses.

He continues to be remembered as a monk of deep compassion, profound meditative practice, and unmatched knowledge in the sacred sciences, leaving behind a spiritual legacy that transcends generations.