Biography of Phra Khru Rattanasopon (Luang Pho Rat Sumano)
Former Abbot of Wat Bang Bamru, Bangkok
1. Early Life and Ordination
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Birth Name: Rat Niyomrit
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Date of Birth: November 16, 1903 (B.E. 2446)
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Birthplace: Bang Bamru, Bangkok Noi, Bangkok, Thailand
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Parents: Mr. Rod and Mrs. Prik Niyomrit
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Siblings: He was the 4th of 6 children.
At the age of 11, after his father passed away, young Rat was brought by his mother to study at Wat Bang Bamru, where he learned under respected monks such as Luang Pu Kaek, Luang Pho Chai, Phra Ajahn Cham, and Phra Ajahn Chap.
2. Monastic Education and Higher Ordination
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Novice Ordination: At age 17, in 1922 (B.E. 2465), he was ordained as a novice monk at Wat Bang Bamru.
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Ordination as Monk: On July 1, 1924 (B.E. 2467), he was fully ordained as a Buddhist monk.
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Preceptor: Phra Dhamma Trilokacharn (Yu), Wat Prayurawongsawat
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Kammavācācariya: Luang Pho Chai, Wat Bang Bamru
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Anusavanacariya: Phra Khru Thammanukul, Wat Suwannakhiri
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Monastic Name (Dhamma Name): Sumano
He spent his early years in monkhood studying both Dhamma and Pali scriptures, and was known for strict discipline and strong adherence to Buddhist practices.
3. Monastic Roles and Titles
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1923 (B.E. 2466): Appointed as a resident monk of Wat Bang Bamru
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1932 (B.E. 2475): Became the Abbot of Bang Bamru Subdistrict, Bangkok Noi District
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1939 (B.E. 2482): Appointed as an official Preceptor
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1950 (B.E. 2493): Received ecclesiastical title of “Phra Khru Sanyabat, Third Class” under the name “Phra Khru Rattanasopon”
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1963 (B.E. 2506): Promoted to “Phra Khru Rattanasopon, Second Class”
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1970 (B.E. 2513): Elevated to “Phra Khru Rattanasopon, First-Class Royal Monastery Assistant”
4. Contributions and Temple Development
Luang Pho Rat was a dynamic and visionary monk who led major renovations and educational efforts at Wat Bang Bamru. Among his major contributions:
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Construction Projects: Oversaw the building of the current ordination hall (ubosot) at the temple, completed over five years at a cost of nearly 2 million Baht.
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Religious Education: Established a school for monks to study Buddhist scriptures (Nak Dham Tri, To, and Ek levels), producing many successful monks who later served across Thailand.
5. Healing and Compassionate Deeds
Luang Pho Rat was known for his compassion and knowledge in traditional medicine. He was said to have healed many villagers and animals suffering from broken bones and other ailments using his spiritual practices and herbal wisdom. His reputation for miraculous healing was widely acknowledged in the region.
6. Sacred Objects and Amulets
Luang Pho Rat created a number of revered amulets, well-known among collectors and the general public for:
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Metta (Loving-kindness)
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Klaew Klaad (Protection from harm)
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Maha Lap (Wealth and fortune)
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Kongkraphan (Invincibility)
Notable Amulets:
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First batch of image coins in 1959
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Somdej powder amulets, 9-tiered series
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Cast and stamped coins from 1972
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Lockets and enameled mini images
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Teardrop-shaped coin from 1976
These items are highly sought after for their spiritual power and beauty.
7. Final Years and Passing
In his later years, Luang Pho Rat suffered from chronic illnesses including diabetes. He was periodically treated at Paolo Memorial Hospital and Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital. Despite his ailments, he continued his service until his passing.
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Date of Death: February 16, 1985
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Time of Death: 8:45 AM
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Age at Death: 93 years old
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Years in Monkhood: 72 years
8. Legacy
Luang Pho Rat Sumano remains one of the most respected senior monks of Bangkok’s western district. He is revered not only for his spiritual knowledge and compassionate service but also for the sacred objects that continue to inspire faith and provide spiritual protection to devotees nationwide.