Phra Khun Paen Wat Amphawan

Wat Amphawan, previously known as Wat Bang Muang, is situated in Tambon Bang Duan, Amphoe Bang Yai, Nonthaburi Province. It lies along the banks of the Mae Nam Om Canal, an ancient waterway which was once part of the old Chao Phraya River. The temple dates back to the late Ayutthaya period, approximately during the reign of King Prasat Thong, around B.E. 2175.

The temple's name is believed to be inspired by the lush mango orchards surrounding it. The term "Amphawan" refers to a grove or forest of mango trees. Historically, during the Buddha’s time, Amphawan Garden was located between the walls of Rajagriha and Mount Khitchakut and originally belonged to Dr. Jivaka Komarabhacca. After treating Lord Buddha and offering him a pair of fine cloths from the Sivi Kingdom, Dr. Jivaka was blessed by the Buddha and attained the Sotapanna stage of enlightenment.

An architectural highlight of Wat Amphawan is the "Ho Trai Klang Nam," which showcases traditional Thai design. This wooden library sits over a small pond and has two levels. The lower level is open without flooring or walls, while the upper level contains two rooms. The structure features embossed wood panels, intricately turned wooden bars, and carved wooden elements on doors and furniture. The roof, covered in terracotta tiles, is double-layered with a bird-wing design. Inside the library, various carved wooden Buddha statues and a storage room for ceremonial items can be found. The temple also houses a beautiful waterside pavilion with a metal replica of Buddha’s footprint on a cement base.

The sacred Buddha image at Wat Amphawan is "Phra Phutta Mongkhon Sukhothai," the principal image enshrined in the ordination hall. In the abbot’s quarters, a Buddha image in the posture of subduing Mara, wearing a hat and standing upright, can be seen, which dates back to the Ayutthaya period.

A notable monk associated with Wat Amphawan is Phra Khru Nonthaphat Pradit, also known as Luang Pho Dit, who gained fame during World War II. He was known for his expertise in using magic and Thai herbal remedies to treat illnesses, alongside renowned monks such as Luang Pho Kee of Wat Hu Chang and Luang Pho Thongsuk of Wat Saphan Sung. Luang Pho Dit studied magical sciences from several revered monks, including Luang Pho Koet of Wat Bang Due, disciples of Luang Pu Chan of Wat Moli, and Luang Pho To of Wat Tha It.

Luang Pho Dit was known for creating Pidta amulets from metal ores found in Bang Muang. These amulets, known as Bang Muang Pidta, were made since the Indochina War to provide people with protection. Although not widely recognized due to their limited production, these amulets are considered the third most significant metal Phra Pidta in Nonthaburi, alongside Phra Pidta Ore Bang Phai and Phra Pidta Bang Due.

Nearby, there is another historic temple called Wat Prang Luang, located at Khlong Bangkok Noi in Tambon Bang Muang. This temple was built during the reign of King Ramathibodi I (King U Thong) in the early Ayutthaya period, around B.E. 1890. Originally named "Wat Luang," it was later renamed "Wat Prang Luang" during the time of Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phraya Vajirananavarorasa, the 10th Supreme Patriarch of Rattanakosin, who noted the temple's prang as a key feature.

Regarding the discovery of the "Phra Khun Phaen Kru Wat Amphawan" on February 13, 2013, Phra Kasem San, the secretary to Phra Khru Mongkhonkitjat (Luang Pu Thongyoi Mangkhalo), reported the unearthing of a jar containing over 100 amulets. Eventually, a second jar was discovered, bringing the total number of amulets to around 200. However, the amulet count later increased to approximately 400, suggesting that more amulets had been found. Experts confirmed the authenticity of these amulets as "Phra Khun Phaen Kru Wat Amphawan."

There has been debate about the total number of jars and amulets discovered, prompting a seminar titled “In-depth look at the Khun Phaen amulets from the Wat Amphawan crypt” on May 22, 2013, at the Richmond Hotel. The event was attended by notable figures including Mr. Phayap Khamphan, President of the Thai Amulet Enthusiasts Association, and Professor Phuchong Chantawich, an archaeologist. During the seminar, Chaow River, an antiques expert, estimated the total number of newly discovered amulets to be around 3,000 pieces.

Reports also surfaced about divers discovering 2-3 additional jars beneath a submerged pagoda base near the temple. Allegedly, these jars are being rented for 9 million baht each. While some locals have questioned the existence of a submerged pagoda base, the area surrounding the temple underwent excavation due to flood damage in 2011. However, no remains of a pagoda were found during the dredging.