Somdej Phra Phutthabat Pilan (Lp Pilan) Wat Rakang Kositaram
Biography of Somdej Phra Phutthabat Pilan
Early Life and Noble Background
Somdej Phra Phutthabat Pilan, originally named Mom Chao That Seniwong, was born in B.E. 2364 during the reign of King Rama II. He was a member of the royal family, being the son of Krom Luang Seniborirak (Phra Ong Chao Daeng). His noble lineage and proximity to the royal court provided him with a foundation steeped in culture, learning, and spiritual practice.
From a young age, Mom Chao That exhibited a keen interest in religious studies and spirituality. His noble background allowed him to access the best teachers and resources of the time, which laid the groundwork for his later contributions to Buddhism.
Ordination and Monastic Training
Mom Chao That was ordained as a novice monk in B.E. 2385, during the reign of King Rama III, at the prestigious Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram (Wat Phra Kaew). His ordination was a significant event, attended by prominent figures of the monastic and royal communities.
- Mentorship and Teachers:
- His ordination preceptor was Somdej Phra Sangkharat Don.
- He was guided in his monastic training by Somdej Phra Buddhachan Toh Phrommarangsi, one of the most revered monks in Thai history.
Somdej Phra Buddhachan Toh played a pivotal role in shaping Mom Chao That's spiritual development. Under his tutelage, Mom Chao That studied the Dhamma-Vinaya (Buddhist scriptures), Samatha Kammathana (concentration meditation), and Vipassana Dhura (insight meditation). His exceptional dedication to learning and practice led him to achieve the seventh level of Buddhist scriptures in B.E. 2404, a prestigious accomplishment.
Rise to Prominence
After completing his studies, Mom Chao That continued to serve as a monk at Wat Rakhang Kositaram, a temple of great significance in Thai Buddhism. His scholarly achievements, meditative insights, and contributions to the monastic community earned him widespread respect.
In B.E. 2407, during the reign of King Rama IV, Mom Chao That was granted the royal ecclesiastical title of Phra Phutthabat Pilan. This title recognized his contributions to Buddhism and his status as a royal monk. The name "Pilan" became synonymous with his amulets, reflecting his high rank and spiritual legacy.
Creation of Phra Somdej Pilan
Phra Somdej Pilan amulets are believed to have been created around B.E. 2418. These amulets were crafted to preserve and propagate Buddhist teachings, embodying the virtues of protection, charm, and spiritual guidance.
- Design and Significance:
- The amulets were created in various molds, including the Arch Door, Large Bodhi Leaf, and First Sermon designs.
- Crafted from sacred powder, the amulets featured unique textures and colors, such as greenish-black, grayish-white, and white-yellow.
- Many amulets were enshrined in crypts and coated with a distinctive wax layer, adding to their mystical charm.
Phra Somdej Pilan amulets were highly revered for their spiritual potency. Their creation involved meticulous rituals, including the invocation of sacred energies and blessings by Somdej Phra Phutthabat Pilan himself. These amulets are considered to be among the most authentic and sought-after sacred items in Thai Buddhism.
Legacy and Passing
Somdej Phra Phutthabat Pilan passed away in B.E. 2443 at the age of 79, having spent 58 years in monkhood. His death marked the end of an era, but his teachings, amulets, and contributions to Buddhism continue to inspire devotees and scholars alike.
- Legacy of Phra Somdej Pilan:
- The name "Phra Somdej Pilan" became a hallmark of his spiritual influence.
- These amulets are treasured not only for their historical and spiritual value but also for their connection to one of the most revered figures in Thai Buddhism.
Connection to Wat Rakhang Kositaram
Wat Rakhang Kositaram, also known as the Temple of the Bell, holds a special place in Thai history. Originally called Wat Bang Wa Yai, the temple was renamed during the reign of King Rama I after a large resonant bell was discovered on its premises. Wat Rakhang became a center of Buddhist learning and practice, with Somdej Phra Buddhachan Toh and later Somdej Phra Phutthabat Pilan contributing significantly to its spiritual and cultural heritage.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
Phra Somdej Pilan remains one of the most revered amulets in Thai Buddhism. Its popularity stems from its association with a "noble creator," "sacred consecration ceremonies," and "a historically significant temple." Collectors and devotees value these amulets for their exceptional craftsmanship and spiritual efficacy.
- Buddhist Virtues:
- Believed to offer protection from harm, invulnerability, and charm.
- Symbolizes the essence of Thai Buddhist amulets: faith, history, and spiritual potency.
Conclusion
Somdej Phra Phutthabat Pilan's life and work exemplify the intersection of royal heritage, Buddhist scholarship, and spiritual practice. His legacy, embodied in the Phra Somdej Pilan amulets, continues to resonate with devotees and collectors, cementing his place as one of the most revered figures in Thai Buddhist history.
%20Pim%20Lek%20Fang%20Tarkut%20BE2523%20Nur%20Phong%20Kerson%20(108%20materials)%20Somdej%20Phra%20Yanasangwon%20(Charoen))%20Wat%20Bowonniwet%20Vihara%20blessed%20by%20Luang%20Pu%20Toh%20Wat%20Pradoochimplee%20(Grand%20ceremony).png)
%20Nur%20Phong%20Prai%20Kuman%20BE2545%20%20Luang%20Phor%20Yeam%20(Lp%20Yeam)%20Wat%20Sam%20Ngan%20%20.png)
%20Wat%20Kositaram%20.png)
%20.png)
%20%20Wat%20Khao%20Kaew,%20Nakhon%20Sawan%20Province%20(hand-inscribed%20with%20Yant%20behind)%20.png)
%20BE2533%20Luang%20Phor%20Ruem%20Wat%20Chukkacher,%20Chonburi%20%20with%20T-Amulet%20Certificate.png)
%20Roon%20Lueng%20Samanasak%20Nur%20Thong%20Daeng%20BE2559%20Wat%20Tako%20Medallion%20for%20promotion%20of%20the%20ecclesiastical%20rank%20(code%20416).png)
%20Wat%20Rai%20Taeng%20Thong,%20Nakhon%20Pathom%20Province.png)
Comments
Post a Comment
Thank you for your comment. We will get back to you soon.