Luang Phor Phat (Lp Phat) Wat Huay Duan

 

Biography of Luang Phor Phat (Phra Ratchamongkol Vajracharn Phat Punyakamo)

Wat Huay Duan (also known as Wat Thara Thaen), Nakhon Sawan Province

Early Life and Ordination

Luang Phor Phat was born on 12 May 1922 (B.E. 2465) in Ban Sa Thale, Yan Matree subdistrict, Phayuha Khiri district, Nakhon Sawan. His birth name was Phat Khonchanthes. His parents, Phu Khun and Mae Kaew, were devout Buddhists who later moved to the Huay Duan area.

He was ordained in 1946 (B.E. 2489) at Wat Sa Thale. His preceptor was Phra Dhamma-trailok Charn (Luang Phor Yod) of Wat Khao Kaew, with Phra Kan and Phra Athikan Chua as co-ordinating monks. Upon ordination, he received the Dhamma name “Punyakamo.”

Spiritual Training and Mentors

Luang Phor Phat studied under several revered masters including Luang Pu Thet of Wat Sa Thale, Luang Pu Derm of Wat Nong Pho, Luang Pu In of Wat Hang Nam Sakorn, Luang Pu Muek of Wat Sa Thale, and Luang Pu Mod of Wat Khok Due. He was also trained in Metta Mahaniyom (loving-kindness charm) by Luang Pu Chub of Wat Phra Borommathat Thung Yang in Uttaradit.

Monastic Service

He served as abbot of Wat Thung Yang in Uttaradit for six years before returning to his home region. In 1970 (B.E. 2513), he was invited by villagers led by the village headman to lead the development of Wat Huay Duan. He accepted the invitation and was officially appointed abbot.

Luang Phor Phat held numerous ecclesiastical positions, including Phra Kru Nivit Punyakaro in 1962 (B.E. 2505). Over the decades, he rose through the ecclesiastical ranks, serving in regional and advisory roles in Nakhon Sawan. In 2021 (B.E. 2564), he was awarded a royal fan of rank during the Coronation era.

Contributions to Society and Buddhism

He was widely respected as a master of sacred arts, mantra chanting, and amulet creation. His amulets were popular among merchants, soldiers, and law enforcement officers for their reputed protective powers. He used the proceeds from his amulets to build religious buildings, schools, and a local hospital, and also provided scholarships and public aid.

One widely revered incident occurred in 2014 (B.E. 2557), when a fire broke out in the chapel at Wat Huay Duan. The entire structure was destroyed, yet his wax statue and monk’s robes remained untouched — an event many believe confirmed his sacred power.

Later Years and Passing

Luang Phor Phat was regarded as one of the most powerful and respected monks in the region. He passed away peacefully at the age of 101 on 24 November 2023 at Bangkok Hospital. He had spent 77 years in the monkhood. His funeral was held with royal honor at the 100-Year Pavilion of Wat Huay Duan.

Legacy

Luang Phor Phat is remembered for his spiritual strength, deep compassion, and lifelong dedication to the community. His amulets are still highly sought after, and his legacy lives on through the temples, schools, and hospitals he helped build. He is regarded as a saintly figure in Nakhon Sawan, and his teachings continue to influence disciples and devotees across Thailand.