Phra Somdej Rai Wari (Somdej Wat Tai) Pim Yai Nur Phong BE2515, consecrated by Luang Pu Tim (Lp Tim) Wat Lahanrai

Phra Somdej Rai Wari (Somdej Wat Tai) Pim Yai Nur Phong BE2515, consecrated by Luang Pu Tim (Lp Tim) Wat Lahanrai with Samakorn Certificate & won 1st in the competition

Biography

 

According to historical records, the Somdej Wat Tai amulets were blessed by Luang Pu Tim at Wat Tai, with some of the amulets later brought back to Wat Lahan Rai for distribution among the laity. Before giving them away, Luang Pu Tim would erase the name "Wat Tai" from the back of the amulets. Additionally, a few of his disciples stamped the back of the amulets personally distributed by him, creating a distinct set of highly sought-after prints.

The larger prints of these Somdej Rai Wari amulets have now gained popularity, as the smaller ones have already reached significant value in the tens of thousands. On these large prints, remnants of the "Wat Tai" name and the production year on the back are often faint or partially erased, serving as a hallmark of the pieces that Luang Pu Tim personally distributed. These amulets are exceptionally rare, with many people never having seen them due to their limited production.

An Account from a Close Disciple

One of Luang Pu Tim’s close disciples, Mr. Suchin Singhaseni, who also helped create the Wai Khru locket model alongside Ajahn Chinporn Suksathit at Wat Lahan Rai in 1975, shared an insightful story. He recounted a moment when he and other disciples were sitting near Luang Pu Tim’s kuti (monastic residence). Suddenly, Luang Pu emerged from his room with a batch of the large Somdej amulets and distributed them personally. Each disciple received one or two amulets, depending on Luang Pu’s decision.

Luang Pu emphasized the importance of safeguarding these amulets, stating their rarity and limited availability. These particular large prints resemble the smaller Somdej Rai Wari amulets but feature a more refined and beautiful Buddha image.

Unique Features of the Amulets

• Back Design: Most of the amulets have a smooth, unpressed back, with some displaying the words “Somphot Sala Karn Parian.”
• Yantra Stamps: A few amulets bear a red five-character yantra stamp, added by disciples who identified it as the yantra of Somdej Chinnabanchorn and marked the amulets to associate them directly with Luang Pu Tim.
• Personalized Writing: Some disciples also inscribed their amulets with pencil on the back, further personalizing the pieces.

Rarity and Collectibility

From research and records, it is believed that only a few dozen of these amulets were ever produced, with fewer than twenty known to remain in circulation today. These amulets are highly coveted among collectors and devotees due to their rarity, beauty, and the fact that they were personally distributed by Luang Pu Tim to his closest disciples.

Conclusion

The Somdej Wat Tai Pim Yai amulets stand as a testament to the profound legacy of Luang Pu Tim. Their exquisite craftsmanship, historical significance, and rarity make them a prized possession for worship and collection, embodying both spiritual and cultural heritage.