The History of Luang Phor Saneh
Luang Phor Saneh, also known as 'Phra Uthai Thammasunthon' or 'Luang Pho Saneh Kangkasaro,' is a highly revered figure in Uthai Thani Province, where he commanded deep respect and admiration. His amulets are renowned for their protective qualities, especially in safeguarding against harm in car accidents. Known for his profound teachings and spiritual practices, Luang Phor Saneh left a lasting legacy even after passing away on January 18, 2000.
Luang Phor Saneh was the former abbot of Wat Sawang Arom in Sawang Arom District, Uthai Thani Province. He was a prominent monk in the Sakae Krang River Basin and a direct disciple of the well-known monks Luang Pho Tui, Luang Pho Chong, and Luang Pho Pok. His amulets are celebrated for their spiritual potency, which encompasses qualities such as loving-kindness, popularity, prosperity, and protection, making them highly sought after by collectors.
Early Life and Ordination
Born on February 1, 1911, in Uthai Thani, Luang Phor Saneh’s birth name was Saneh Kaewthanakorn. He was the son of rice farmers, Mr. Kleep and Mrs. Phuk Kaewthanakorn, who lived in Ban Nong Phangkha, Uthai Thani Province. Due to limited educational opportunities at the time, he completed primary school at Wat Nong Phangkha in 1922 and then returned home to help his family.
At the age of 21, following his military draft, he decided to enter monkhood and was ordained on May 13, 1932, at Wat Thung Na Thai in Uthai Thani Province. His preceptor was Phra Khru Ukkrit Thammarat (Luang Pho Tui), and his instructors were Phra Ajahn Ngern and Phra Ajahn Kan. Upon ordination, he received the monastic name "Kangkasaro."
Monastic Life and Learning
After his ordination, Luang Phor Saneh resided at Wat Nong Pangkha, where he immersed himself in the study of Dharma, Pali, and sacred teachings under Luang Pho Tui’s guidance. He later studied under Luang Pho Chong, a master of spiritual practices and his uncle. On June 2, 1935, he moved to Ubosatharam Temple to further his studies with Luang Pho Pok, where he became proficient in the Naktham Tri, Tho, and Ek exams and gained fluency in the Khmer language.
Leadership at Wat Sawang Arom
In 1939, Luang Phor Saneh relocated to Wat Sawang Arom and was appointed deputy abbot. He later became the abbot in 1949, a preceptor in 1953, and in 1954, he was honored with the title of Phra Khru Uthai Thammasunthon. By 1966, he was named abbot of Sawang Arom District and, in 1981, elevated to first-class district abbot with the title "Phra Khru Uthai Thammasunthon."
Throughout his monastic life, Luang Phor Saneh adhered strictly to the Dhamma and Vinaya (monastic discipline). He placed great importance on the education of monks and novices, founding a Dhamma school at Wat Sawang Arom where he served as a teacher, examination supervisor, and chairman of the Dhamma examination committee for Uthai Thani Province.
Sacred Items and Legacy
Luang Phor Saneh was known for his deep knowledge, abilities, and compassion. His efforts in temple restoration and construction included building temple walls, monks' quarters, gates, prayer halls, bell towers, Dharma halls, and multipurpose halls, turning Wat Sawang Arom into a model temple.
Among his sacred creations, the blackened brass floating statue with a bell, the Uthai Thammasunthon bell, the tiger-shaped Somdej with a three-king takrut, and the ivory-handled knife are particularly cherished by collectors.
Passing and Legacy
Luang Phor Saneh was known for his calm and composed demeanor, open-mindedness, and kindness toward others. He passed away peacefully on January 19, 2000, at the age of 88, after 68 years of devoted monastic service. His life and contributions continue to inspire many, and his teachings and amulets remain highly respected throughout the region.