Phra Phutta (Wan Thitiyano) Wat Arun

Somdej Phra Buddhacarya (Wan Thitiyano): 11th Abbot of Wat Arun Ratchawararam

Somdej Phra Buddhacarya, born Wan Wichitakun on April 25, 1894, was the 11th abbot of Wat Arun Ratchawararam. Known by his monastic name Thitiyano, he descended from a distinguished lineage, with his paternal ancestors serving as governors in Pranburi, and his maternal lineage associated with King Rama IV’s court.

Early Life and Education

Birth and Family:
- Born in Narai Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phetchaburi Province.
- Son of Phra Wichitachanarong (Thet Wichitakun) and Mrs. Thongyu Wichitakun.
- Related to Chao Chom Manda Chan of King Rama IV’s reign, linking him to the Suksawat royal family.
Education:
- Began studying Thai at Wat Na Huai, Pranburi, and later Khmer and Pali under Phra Ajahn Kaew at Wat Saket, Bangkok.
- Continued Pali studies at Wat Phra Chetuphon (Wat Pho), passing several levels of Dhamma examinations, including the highest level available at the time.

Ordination and Monastic Life

Novice Ordination: Ordained at Wat Phra Chetuphon at age 15 under Phra Ajahn Mok.
Full Ordination: At 21, he was ordained at Wat Na Huai, Prachuap Khiri Khan.
Academic Excellence: Passed the 6th level of Dhamma examinations, an exceptional achievement of the era.

Administrative and Religious Contributions

Positions Held:
- Assistant Abbot of Wat Phra Chetuphon (1932).
- Member of the Sangha Supreme Council (1950).
- Acting Supreme Patriarch (1965).
Restoration Projects:
- Led extensive restorations at Wat Arun, including the Ubosot, cloisters, and Phra Prang, with government support.
- Constructed the Phuek Witthaya Prasat Buddhist School, funded by patrons.
- Installed modern infrastructure like water pipelines and electricity throughout the temple.

Sacred Amulets of Wat Arun

Phra Somdej Wat Arun (1966):
- Mixed with sacred powders from broken Phra Somdej Wat Rakhang, Wat Bang Khun Phrom, and Wat Ket Chaiyo.
- Included materials like 108 types of flower pollen, incense powder, and sacred soils.
- Consecrated in a grand ceremony led by 108 renowned monks, with a 109th monk sending telepathic blessings.
- Notable for the small royal seal on its back.
Phra Prang Coin (1946):
- Created to celebrate the renovation of Wat Arun’s Phra Prang.
- Blessed by esteemed monks, including Luang Pho Daeng of Wat Khao Bandai It.
King Taksin Medal (1963 & 2018 Editions):
- Commemorated the 250th anniversary of Thonburi as the capital.
- Known for miraculous occurrences during ceremonies, such as solar eclipses.
Phra Chaiwat of Wat Arun:
- Crafted by Phra Khru Luem using sacred materials from Somdet Phra Sangkarach Pae of Wat Suthat.

Acting Supreme Patriarch

In 1965, the Ministry of Education appointed Somdej Phra Buddhacarya as the acting Supreme Patriarch, citing his seniority and capability. He served in this role until the Supreme Patriarch could resume his duties.

Legacy

Death: Passed away on October 19, 1977, at 83 years old.
Impact: His dedication to religious education, temple restoration, and community service solidified his legacy as one of the most respected monks of his time.
Wat Arun’s Importance: Under his leadership, Wat Arun became a center of spiritual and cultural significance, with its restored Phra Prang and sacred amulets continuing to inspire devotion.

Somdej Phra Buddhacarya (Wan Thitiyano)’s life and work exemplify a monk’s unwavering commitment to faith, scholarship, and community, leaving an enduring mark on Thai Buddhism.

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