Luang Phor Tad (Lp Tad) (Phra Phutthawiyakorn) Wat Chaina

 

Biography of 

Phra Phutthawiyakorn (Luang Pho Tad Powaro)

Former Abbot of Wat Chaina, Tha Yang District, Phetchaburi Province

---

1. Basic Information

• Monastic Title: Phra Phutthawiyakorn

• Monastic Name: Luang Pho Tad Powaro

• Former Title: Phra Khru Boworakit Koson

• Position: Abbot of Wat Chaina, Moo 2, Ban Nai, Nong Chok Subdistrict, Tha Yang District, Phetchaburi Province

• Date of Birth: BE2474

• Date of Passing: May 3, BE2552

• Age at Death: 78 years

• Years in Monkhood: 58 years

---

2. Spiritual Development and Early Monastic Life

Luang Pho Tad was ordained as a novice monk at a young age and continued his full ordination in the Buddhist monastic order, remaining in robes throughout his life. Although little is known about his childhood, his reputation as a disciplined and devoted monk was firmly established in Phetchaburi.

He had a deep interest in occult sciences and Thai spiritual practices, which began around 1953. Driven by curiosity and sincerity, he sought to study every known sacred subject and manuscript available in Phetchaburi. As he once said, “I took everything—anything that was said to be good, I studied it.”

---

3. Teachers and Magical Knowledge

Luang Pho Tad was a student of many highly respected teachers across various temples:

• Learned Takrud creation from Luang Pho Thong of Wat Khao Krajiu

• Studied magical texts of Luang Pho Krit, from the lineage of Luang Pho Kun of Wat Phra Non

• Learned Palad Khik (phallic amulet) consecration from Luang Pho Chum of Wat Kuti Bang Khem

• Received teachings from Luang Pho Thong Suk of Wat Ton Luang and others

He was considered a serious practitioner of traditional Thai wicha (magic) and spiritual knowledge, having absorbed a broad range of esoteric disciplines.

---

4. Personality and Character

Luang Pho Tad was known for his frankness, straightforward speech, and old-fashioned Thai demeanor. First-time visitors often mistook his blunt tone for hostility. However, those who knew him well recognized his kindness, humility, and sincerity.

He avoided boasting about his accomplishments and discouraged glorification of his spiritual practices. He often dismissed exaggerated reverence, once saying:

“Why did you come? I’m not sacred. I’m just a country monk. There’s nothing special here.”

Despite his modesty, he remained respected and beloved, even when speaking plainly or scolding devotees—his words were always grounded in truth and goodwill.

---

5. Sacred Objects and Teachings

Luang Pho Tad’s amulets became widely known for their spiritual power, especially:

• Takrud: Revered for invincibility and protection

• Palad Khik: Known for exceptional Metta Maha Niyom (loving-kindness and charm)

His Takrud was particularly respected for its durability and sacred energy. When asked about prohibitions, Luang Pho Tad stated:

“Parents are monks. Don’t curse your parents, your own or others’. Keep the Five Precepts. The amulet will work because people are good.”

He emphasized that the user’s morality and intention are more important than the object itself:

“Lead is lead. A takrud is a takrud. It doesn’t spoil. It depends on the heart.”

He distributed his amulets freely to those who visited the temple, encouraging merit-making rather than commercial gain. Proceeds from amulet donations were used solely for temple restoration. Once the target amount was raised, he would order the merit cabinet closed.

---

6. Ecclesiastical Promotion and Final Days

On December 5, 2008, in honor of His Majesty the King’s Birthday, Luang Pho Tad was promoted from Phra Khru Boworakit Koson to Phra Phutthawiyakorn.

Though in good health at age 78, he suddenly fell ill on the morning of May 3, 2009, reporting chest tightness and difficulty breathing. Disciples rushed him to Tha Yang Hospital, but he passed away at 7:37 AM. The cause was determined to be sudden heart failure.

---

7. Funeral and Public Mourning

His body was returned to Wat Chaina for religious rites. On May 4, 2009, at 1:00 PM, the temple committee moved his body to the main hall for ceremonies. Many senior monks and provincial dignitaries attended, including Governor Chai Phanitphonphan who presided over the royal bathing water ritual.

Honoring his last will, Luang Pho Tad strictly prohibited his remains from being used for commercial fundraising. He wrote:

“My body is not to be used for fundraising or public appeals. Do only what you can. There is no shame in modest means.”

He requested that only seven days of chanting be held, with cremation on May 10, 2009, at 4:00 PM.

---

8. Legacy

The passing of Luang Pho Tad marked a profound loss for the Buddhist community of Phetchaburi. Though he lived quietly and humbly, his amulets, teachings, and character continue to inspire reverence.

Wat Chaina remains a place of pilgrimage for those who received his blessings, wisdom, or sacred objects. His legacy is one of discipline, sincerity, and spiritual power grounded in truth and humility.