Biography of Luang Phor Chaem (Charm)
Wat Chalong, Phuket
พระครูวิสุทธิวงศาจารย์ญาณมุนี (หลวงพ่อแช่ม วัดฉลอง)
Luang Phor Chaem of Wat Chalong is one of Southern Thailand’s most revered monk-masters, remembered not only for his spiritual discipline but for his decisive role in protecting the people of Phuket during a time of unrest. In Thai Buddhist history, he stands as a figure of courage, compassion, and unwavering faith.
He was born in B.E. 2370 (1827 CE) in Phuket during the early Rattanakosin period. His birth name was Chaem (แช่ม). From a young age, he was known for his calm temperament and strong inclination toward religious life. He entered monastic training early and dedicated himself to studying Buddhist scripture, meditation, and traditional sacred sciences.
Early Monastic Path
Luang Phor Chaem was ordained as a monk at Wat Chalong (Wat Chaiyathararam), the most important temple in Phuket province. During the 19th century, Wat Chalong served not only as a religious center but as a community anchor for villagers across the island.
He trained rigorously in:
-
Vinaya discipline (พระวินัย)
-
Meditation practice (ภาวนา)
-
Sacred inscriptions and yantra knowledge (ยันต์)
Over time, his reputation for spiritual attainment and compassionate leadership grew steadily throughout Phuket and neighboring provinces.
The 1876 Angyee Rebellion – Protector of Phuket
Luang Phor Chaem’s legacy became deeply rooted in history during the Angyee Rebellion of 1876 (B.E. 2419) — a violent uprising involving Chinese secret societies during Phuket’s tin-mining era.
At a time when villagers were fearful and scattered, Luang Phor Chaem emerged as a spiritual pillar. Historical accounts record that he:
-
Encouraged unity among the local population
-
Provided moral strength and guidance
-
Blessed sacred cloths and talismans for protection
-
Motivated villagers to defend their homeland
In Thai amulet culture, this event is often cited as the moment when his reputation as a kru ba ajahn of khlaew khlaad (แคล้วคลาด – protection from danger) became firmly established.
For his leadership and influence in restoring peace, he was later honored with ecclesiastical titles and became one of Phuket’s most respected spiritual figures.
Spiritual Character and Teaching Style
Luang Phor Chaem was known for:
-
Quiet authority
-
Practical wisdom
-
Deep compassion (เมตตา)
-
Emphasis on moral conduct
He did not promote mysticism for spectacle. Rather, his sacred objects and blessings were rooted in discipline, prayer, and merit-making (บุญกุศล). Devotees believed his strength came from sincere practice rather than outward ritual display.
His teaching emphasized:
“Courage must be guided by morality. Protection begins with right conduct.”
Sacred Objects and Amulet Legacy
Luang Phor Chaem is especially famous for:
-
Takrut (ตะกรุด) – rolled metal talismans inscribed with sacred yantra
-
Blessed cloths (ผ้ายันต์)
-
Early regional amulets of Wat Chalong
Collectors of Southern Thai amulets regard his takrut as among the earliest and most historically significant in Phuket. They are traditionally associated with:
-
Protection (คุ้มครอง)
-
Avoidance of danger (แคล้วคลาด)
-
Strength of spirit
In Thai amulet scholarship, pieces connected directly to Luang Phor Chaem are considered foundational to the Wat Chalong lineage.
Wat Chalong and Continuing Reverence
Wat Chalong (Wat Chaiyathararam) remains Phuket’s most important Buddhist temple. Luang Phor Chaem’s image is enshrined there, and both locals and international visitors pay respect to this day.
Even more than a century after his passing, devotees in Phuket still refer to him as the monk who “protected the island.”
Passing and Legacy
Luang Phor Chaem passed away in B.E. 2451 (1908 CE) after decades in monkhood. His life spanned a transformative era in Southern Thailand, and he left behind not only sacred objects but a legacy of courage and moral leadership.
In Thai religious culture, he is remembered as:
-
A protector monk of the South
-
A spiritual anchor during crisis
-
A symbol of disciplined faith
His name remains inseparable from the identity of Wat Chalong and Phuket itself.