Luang Phor Ruesi Lingdam (Lp Ruesi Lingdam), Wat Tha Sung, Uthai Thani

Luang Phor Ruesi Lingdam (Lp Ruesi Lingdam), Wat Tha Sung, Uthai Thani

 

Biography of Luang Pho Ruesi Lingdam


Ordained Name: Phra Rajsuddhinanmongkol (พระราชสุทธินันท์มงคล)

Nickname: Luang Pho Ruesi Lingdam (หลวงพ่อฤาษีลิงดำ)

Birth Name: Nguam Panthachoti (เงื่้อม พานิชโชติ)

Date of Birth: June 28, B.E. 2459 (1916)

Date of Passing: October 30, B.E. 2535 (1992)

Temple: Wat Tha Sung (Wat Chantharam), Uthai Thani Province


Early Life


Luang Pho Ruesi Lingdam was born on June 28, B.E. 2459, in Bang Phlap Subdistrict, Pak Kret District, Nonthaburi Province. His birth name was Nguam Panthachoti. From a young age, he exhibited spiritual inclinations and a sharp mind. He pursued monastic education with enthusiasm and became well-versed in Buddhist scriptures, Pali studies, and practical Dhamma.


Ordination and Early Monastic Path


He was ordained as a monk in B.E. 2480 (1937) at Wat Bang Phlap, Nonthaburi. After ordination, he became known for his diligence, deep meditative ability, and commitment to the path of Dhamma. He traveled extensively in search of advanced spiritual teachers and meditation masters across Thailand and neighboring regions.


The Name “Ruesi Lingdam”


His monastic name, “Luang Pho Ruesi Lingdam,” literally means “the Black Monkey Ruesi (Hermit Monk).” The name arose from an incident where he practiced asceticism in the forest, often living in seclusion, and wore a black outer robe (lingdam). His behavior and lifestyle resembled that of an ancient hermit (ruesi), and devotees began to refer to him by this affectionate name.


Establishing Wat Tha Sung


In B.E. 2511 (1968), Luang Pho began the renovation and spiritual revival of Wat Tha Sung (officially Wat Chantharam), which had been left abandoned and deteriorated. Through his leadership, the temple transformed into a major center of practice for meditation, merit-making, and Buddhist teachings.


He also oversaw the construction of sacred architecture, such as:

  • The Glass Ubosot (Uposatha Hall)

  • The Great Hall of 100 Meters

  • Multiple viharn (sanctuaries) and chedis (stupas)


Wat Tha Sung eventually became a prominent temple in Uthai Thani and a national pilgrimage site.


Meditation Practice and Teachings


Luang Pho was renowned for his mastery of advanced meditation techniques, especially those in the Vipassana and Kasina traditions. He emphasized the importance of mindfulness (sati), concentration (samadhi), and clear comprehension (sampajañña).


He was also known for:

  • Teaching both laypeople and monks with clarity and compassion

  • Sharing detailed knowledge of heavenly realms, karma, past lives, and rebirth

  • Advocating the practice of Nibbāna as attainable in this life


Many of his talks were recorded and distributed in both print and audio form, becoming widespread among Thai practitioners.


Sacred Objects and Amulets


Luang Pho created many sacred amulets and objects, often blessed through intense meditative states. Some of his most well-known include:

  • Phra Phong Phutthakhun (sacred powder amulets)

  • Rian Luang Pho (blessed medals)

  • Takruts, yant cloths, and protective charms


These items are considered highly sacred and are believed to possess spiritual protection, luck, and merit-enhancing powers.


Legacy and Passing


Luang Pho Ruesi Lingdam passed away peacefully on October 30, B.E. 2535, at the age of 76. His body was preserved and remains on display in a glass casket at Wat Tha Sung, where thousands of devotees continue to visit and pay respects.


His teachings, meditation methods, and spiritual guidance live on through his disciples, printed works, and digital recordings. He remains one of Thailand’s most beloved and influential monks of the modern era.

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