Luang Pu Pan (Lp Pan) Wat Saphan Sung, Bang Sue

 

Biography of Luang Pu Pan (Supanno) – Wat Saphan Sung, Bangkok

Monastic Title: Phra Upachaya Pan (Supanno)

Known As: Luang Pu Pan Supanno

Specialization: Vipassana meditation and sacred spells (Wicha)

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Early Life and Monastic Background

Contrary to the common belief that Luang Pu Pan resided at Wat Saphan Sung, he actually never resided there. He served as the second abbot of Wat Mai Thong Sen in Kiak Kai, Bangkok, from approximately 1887 to 1929.

Wat Mai Thong Sen was formerly divided into two separate temples: Wat Yai Thong Sen and Wat Pa Lelai. Luang Pu Pan undertook the renovation and unification of these temples into one, under the new name “Wat Mai Thong Sen.”

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Temple Restoration and Contributions

Within the temple grounds, he oversaw the housing of Luang Pho To, a large Buddha statue in the Pang Pa Lelai posture. This image was constructed during the tenure of Phra Thamma Udom (Thuk)—the first abbot of the temple—who was known to be a Dhamma sermon partner of Somdet Phra Phutthachan (To) of Wat Rakhang.

Luang Pu Pan also contributed to the construction of religious structures, including supporting the building of the old ordination hall at Wat Huai Khwang (now Wat Kunnathirutharam).

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Later Years and Relocation

Due to his renown in Vipassana meditation and magical knowledge, he became the subject of constant attention from villagers, particularly those seeking lucky numbers. To escape the crowds and regain peace for his practice, Luang Pu Pan moved to stay with his relative, Somphot Kong, at Wat Bang Krabue (also known as Wat Pracharabue Tham) on Rama V Road in Dusit District, Bangkok. He remained there until his passing.

The misconception that he resided at Wat Saphan Sung may stem from his close disciple, Ajarn Jek, a well-known monk at Wat Saphan Sung, who distributed Luang Pu Pan’s amulets from that temple, leading to the association.

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Amulet Creation

Luang Pu Pan was a direct disciple of Somdet Phra Phutthachan (To) and followed in his tradition by creating sacred powder amulets based on the Somdej Wat Rakhang style. His creations include:

• Phra Somdej amulets: Produced in two main forms:

  • Deep-cone shape

  • Shallow-cone shape

• Phra Pidta Maha Ut: Made in the “Chula Kite” (ว่าวจุฬา) style

• Phra Nak Prok: Created and offered for enshrinement at Wat Phra Kaew in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Rattanakosin

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Amulet Characteristics

Luang Pu Pan’s amulets are known for:

• A rough texture composed of sacred powder, minerals, and shell lime

• A composition closely resembling that of Somdej Wat Rakhang

• Some deep-cone Somdej amulets being mistakenly identified as genuine Somdej Wat Rakhang pieces due to their remarkable similarity

He is considered one of Somdet Toh’s disciples who created the fewest amulets, most of which were made during his time at Wat Mai Thong Sen.

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Sacred Power and Reputation

His amulets are recognized for encompassing all-around protective and benevolent power:

• Loving-kindness (Metta)

• Protection from harm

• Blessings and fortune

These attributes have made them highly respected among amulet collectors and Buddhist devotees. Luang Pu Pan remains a revered monk in Thai Buddhist history for both his deep meditative practice and sacred object consecration.