Chao Khun Thongchai (CK Thongchai), Wat Traimit Witthayaram Worawihan, Bangkok

 

Biography of Chao Khun Thongchai (Phra Phrommangkalachan)

Temple: Wat Traimit Witthayaram Worawihan, Bangkok

Birth Name: Thongchai Iamsaard

Monastic Title: Chao Khun Thongchai

Pali Title: Phra Phrommangkalachan

Date of Birth: 21 February B.E. 2496 (1953)

Place of Birth: Laem Kae, Na Pradu Subdistrict, Phan Thong District, Chonburi Province

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Ordination & Education

• Ordained as a novice (samanera) on 8 December B.E. 2510

• Fully ordained as a monk on 19 April B.E. 2517 under Phra Wisutthadhiday

• Completed Nak Tham examinations in B.E. 2514

• Completed Pali studies up to Level 6 in B.E. 2528

• Earned Bachelor’s degree in Education (B.E. 2546)

• Completed Master’s degree in Education (B.E. 2553)

• Earned Doctorate in Education (B.E. 2558)

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Ecclesiastical Roles and Ranks

• B.E. 2534: Appointed Assistant Abbot (Phra Khru Sri Wisutthanuwat)

• B.E. 2535: Elevated to Third-Class Rank (Phra Phawanawisutthacharn)

• B.E. 2538: Elevated to Second-Class Rank (Phra Ratchaphawanawikrom)

• B.E. 2547: Promoted to First-Class Rank (Phra Thepphawanawikrom)

• B.E. 2554: Granted Third-Class Thammanikaya Title (Phra Thammaphawanawikrom)

• B.E. 2556: Bestowed the high-ranking title of Chao Khun as Phra Phrommangkalachan

Current Roles:

• Assistant Abbot of Wat Traimit

• Sangha Advisor for Region 8

• Deputy Director of Dhamma Samana Affairs

• Member of the Supreme Sangha Council

• President of the Romchatra Foundation and Guo Shi Institute

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Public Influence and Notable Events

1. Leicester City Football Club Blessings (2015–2016):

Chao Khun Thongchai was invited by the club owner, Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, to bless the Leicester players. He gave each player three amulets and performed stadium blessings. During matches, he meditated in a specially prepared room, reportedly sensing moments of goal scoring and victory, gaining significant international recognition.

2. Blessings for National Athletes:

Chao Khun Thongchai has frequently blessed Thai national teams before major competitions, such as the U-23 football team and national volleyball players, providing amulets and sacred cloths for spiritual protection and morale.

3. International Influence:

In B.E. 2559 (2016), he prepared a sacred cloth inscribed with Thai Buddhist blessings and translated English affirmations for then-U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. It was sent through his disciples as a gesture of goodwill and spiritual encouragement.

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Legacy and Philosophy

Chao Khun Thongchai is widely regarded for his ability to combine traditional Theravāda Buddhist practices with public engagement and contemporary relevance. He advocates that the efficacy of sacred objects lies in the individual’s confidence, faith, and positive intention—not superstition.

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Cultural Impact and Recognition

• Became a prominent spiritual figure in both Thai and international communities

• Revered for his work during Leicester City’s historic Premier League championship

• Continues to lead Wat Traimit, the home of Thailand’s famous Golden Buddha, furthering its role as a spiritual and cultural center