Luang Phor Phong Thammachotiko of Wat Khuhasawan

Luang Phor Phong Thammachotiko of Wat Khuhasawan

 

The Life and Legacy of Luang Phor Phong Thammachotiko of Wat Khuhasawan


In the spiritual heartland of old Thonburi stands Wat Khuhasawan, also known to locals as Wat Sala Si Na, a temple once revered as a major center for meditation. Its prominence can be traced to one remarkable monk—Luang Phor Phong Thammachotiko, also honored by the ecclesiastical title Phra Wisutthisan Thera. His spiritual insight, humility, and the powerful amulets he created left a lasting mark on Thai Buddhist history.

A Noble Beginning


Luang Phor Phong was born in B.E. 2414 (1871) in Bang Si Thong Subdistrict, Nonthaburi Province. His birth name was simply Phong, the son of Mr. Sud and Mrs. Am. In B.E. 2435 (1892), at the age of 21, he entered monkhood at Wat Rawak in Nonthaburi.


His ordination was overseen by distinguished teachers:

  • Preceptor: Phra Preechachaloem (Kaew Songsuwanno), who would later become Phra Thepmoli, abbot of Wat Mahannoparam.

  • Sermon instructor: Phra Athikan Kaew of Wat Fai Mai (also known as Wat Amrit).

  • Anusavana teacher: Phra Athikan Lop of Wat Rawak.


He received the monastic name Thammachotiko, marking the start of a spiritual journey rooted deeply in discipline and vipassana meditation.

Years of Spiritual Cultivation


After ordination, Luang Phor Phong studied Vipassana meditation for three years under Athikan Kaew of Wat Fai Mai. His dedication led him to further practice at Wat Nang Chi under Phra Khru Silakhan Sunthon, and later at Wat Nak Prok, where he spent 10 additional years refining his practice. There, he formed a lifelong bond with Luang Pu Chu, a fellow disciple under the great Luang Pu Iam of Wat Nang.

Becoming Abbot of Wat Khuhasawan


On July 14, B.E. 2455 (1912), Luang Phor Phong was invited by Somdej Phra Wannarat (Phuen) of Wat Pho and Phra Phutthaprokaya of Wat Apsorn Sawan to take up the position of abbot of Wat Khuhasawan Worawihan. At the time, the temple was in a state of disrepair, but under his leadership, it would soon be revived as a center of Buddhist practice and sacred artistry.

Royal Recognition and Ecclesiastical Titles


Luang Phor Phong’s contributions to Thai Buddhism did not go unnoticed. On November 10, B.E. 2458 (1915), during the Royal Chatramongkol Ceremony at Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall, he was bestowed the title Phra Khru Sangwon Samathiwat. He was further appointed as district abbot of Khlong Bang Chak, Phasi Charoen, and by September 24, B.E. 2464 (1921), elevated to Phra Wisutthisan Thera, earning the rare distinction of a woven ivory fan, a mark of great monastic honor.


Notably, he was one of only four monks to receive such a fan during King Rama V’s reign—alongside:

  1. Luang Pu Iam, Wat Nang

  2. Phra Sangwarachum, Wat Ratchasitthi

  3. Luang Pu Pan, Wat Saphan Sung

  4. Luang Phor Phong, Wat Khuhasawan

Master Healer and Meditation Teacher


Luang Phor Phong was renowned as a gentle, humble, and charitable monk who never sought material wealth. Instead, he offered healing, guidance, and compassion to all who came. People afflicted with illness—both physical and mental—often found relief through his blessed holy water. Some were said to have been cured of insanity after a single sacred bath.


His holy water was believed to:

  • Drive away malevolent spirits

  • Protect against harm

  • Attract kindness, popularity, and good fortune


It is no surprise that he was considered not only a meditation master but also a spiritual healer of great renown.

The Legendary Phra Somdej Leb Mue Amulet


Among his spiritual legacies, none are more revered than the Phra Somdej Leb Mue amulet—named after its resemblance to a human fingertip. Known for metta mahaniyom (loving-kindness) and prosperity, this amulet became the signature piece of Luang Phor Phong’s sacred craftsmanship.


Two Known Versions

:

  1. First Batch (~B.E. 2457 / 1914)

    • Smooth back

    • No yantra markings

  2. Second Batch (~B.E. 2464 / 1921)

    • Features Unalome (spiral-shaped yantra) on the reverse


Both versions are rare, with a combined production of no more than 5,000 pieces.


Amulet Characteristics:

  • Distinctive fingertip-shaped frame

  • Buddha in diamond meditation posture

  • Thick sanghati line across the chest

  • Made from fine, dry off-white sacred powder


While these amulets are not widely known outside of Thonburi, they remain highly treasured by families in Phasi Charoen and surrounding areas. Those who possess them value them not just for their beauty, but for their deep spiritual power and sacred provenance.

Final Years and Enduring Legacy


Luang Phor Phong served as abbot of Wat Khuhasawan for 16 years. Though not old in years, he faced chronic illness throughout his later life. He passed away peacefully on November 30, B.E. 2471 (1928), at the age of 57, having lived 35 years in monkhood.


Though he is no longer with us, his teachings, his sacred creations, and his compassion continue to resonate. For devotees of Thai Buddhism, Luang Phor Phong remains a guiding light, a master of both Dhamma and sacred craft.

Closing Thoughts


Luang Phor Phong’s life story is more than just a chapter in Buddhist history—it’s a reminder of how humility, wisdom, and unwavering practice can transform a modest temple into a spiritual sanctuary. His amulets are not just collectibles—they are legacies, carrying the blessings and energy of a deeply respected monk.


For serious collectors and devotees, Phra Somdej Leb Mue is more than an amulet. It’s a direct link to a monk whose presence once healed, inspired, and illuminated the path of Dhamma.

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