Legend of Phra Pidta Pim Tapap by Phor Than Khieow (Lp Khiew) Wat Rong Bon, Nakhon Si Thammarat
The Phra Pidta Pim Tapap amulet, crafted by Phor Than Khiew of Wat Rong Bon, is known for its unique blend of materials, including aloe vera, and has become a rare and revered item. This amulet, dating back to 1967, is renowned within the local community for its exceptional preservation and status as a champion relic of the region. Its clean and simple design, combined with its age, adds to its legendary status among Phra Pidta amulets in the southern style.
Life and Monastic Journey of Phor Than Khieow
Phor Than Khiew was born in 1881 and ordained at the age of 22 at Wat Gangavati. He was a disciple of Father Than Iad of Wat Rong Bon, known for his mastery in introspective meditation, incantations, and ancient scriptures. His training was extensive, learning sacred arts from esteemed teachers before embarking on a pilgrimage through the southern forests until 1916. Upon his return to Wat Rong Bon, he became the abbot after the passing of his mentor, Ajahn Iad. A contemporary of revered monks like Ajahn Nam of Wat Don Sala and Pho Than Kling of Wat Thalung Thong, Phor Than Khiew’s reputation grew, especially after his participation in sacred consecrations, including the 1970 ceremony led by Luang Pu at Wat Klang Bang Kaeo. His status soared posthumously, as his robes miraculously petrified rather than decomposing, an enduring sign of his sanctity.
A Quiet Life and Posthumous Fame
During his life, Phor Than Khiew was relatively unknown outside his close community. At the consecration of Phra Kring Phutthachaisri at Wat Klang Bang Kaew, he went largely unnoticed by attendees, as he was not widely recognized. However, after his death in 1976, the remarkable preservation of his body—along with his robes that did not decay—drew widespread attention, establishing his sacred legacy. His body remains at Wat Rong Bon, preserved for worship, with hair and nails that reportedly continue to grow and require annual trimming.
Creation of the Phra Pidta Amulet
One of his most esteemed creations is the Phra Pidta, produced for the 1967 sand pagoda ceremony at Wat Rong Bon. This amulet was crafted from a mixture of aloe vera, flower pollen, sacred soil, betel nut, and grass seeds, bound together with buffalo milk to create a harmonious blend. He personally blessed these amulets with solo chanting over 15 nights before their distribution at the ceremony. These amulets have since become rare, noted for their powdery texture and color variations, including shades of reddish-brown, gray, and white.
Additionally, during this period, Phor Than Khiew also crafted small Buddha images made from lead, roughly the size of a little finger, with production numbers matching those of the Phra Pidta amulets.
Legacy of Protection and Spiritual Power
In southern Thailand, devotees hold Phor Than Khiew’s Phra Pidta amulets in higher esteem than his coin amulets or likenesses, as he often expressed that he preferred items he crafted himself. Known for providing blessings of great mercy, fortune, invulnerability, and Maha Ut (protection from weapons), his amulets are highly regarded for their potent spiritual powers and remain sought after for their enduring efficacy.