Phra Somdej Prok Pho 菩提叶崇迪佛 Run Mrigadayavan Nur Phong Namon BE2466, Luang Pu Nak (Lp Nak), Wat Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, etc… participated in the blessing ceremony

Phra Somdej Wat Marukhathaiyawan (Large Bodhi Leaf Mold) – B.E. 2466 (1923)

A Rare Sacred Amulet Commissioned by King Rama VI, Crafted from Oil Powder Material

1. Historical Background

The Phra Somdej Wat Marukhathaiyawan, featuring a large Bodhi leaf imprint, was created in B.E. 2466 (1923) under the royal commission of King Rama VI.

The amulets were produced to commemorate the construction of Mrigadayavan Palace located in Hua Hin District, Phetchaburi Province — a palace intended for royal retreats and known for its architectural elegance.

This batch of sacred amulets holds significant historical and spiritual value, being directly associated with a royal initiative and consecrated through an elaborate religious ceremony.

2. Specifications and Composition

Key features of the Phra Somdej Wat Marukhathaiyawan:

• Mold: Large Bodhi leaf imprint with a shallow, detailed relief.

• Back: Smooth, flat surface without inscriptions or patterns.

• Material: Crafted from a special oil powder mixture (“Phong Nam Man”), characterized by its:

  • Juicy, oily texture

  • Smooth, compact surface

  • Shiny finish

• Size: Approximately 4.0 x 2.5 cm.

The oil powder technique used in this amulet became a prototype for later “Phong Nam Man” amulet creations, including the famed Phra Somdej Bang Khun Phrom Bodhi Leaf Mold of B.E. 2509.

3. Sacred Ingredients

The Phra Somdej amulets were composed of an exceptional blend of sacred powders, including:

• Powder from Somdej Phra Sangharaja Suk Kai Theun.

• Powder from Somdej Phra Buddhachan Toh Phrommarangsi of Wat Rakhang.

• Sacred powder from Luang Phor Kaew of Wat Khrueawan.

• Various ancient powders from other revered monks and temples.

The binding agent used was soy sauce oil (“Nam Man Tao Jiao”), applied generously to produce the distinctive oily texture revered by collectors.

4. Consecration Ceremony

The grand consecration ceremony was presided over by Luang Pu Nak of Wat Hua Hin, alongside other prominent monks of the era. The ritual involved intensive chanting of sacred parittas, invocations of protective blessings, and meditative empowerment to imbue the amulets with strong spiritual potency.

5. Spiritual Powers and Beliefs

Phra Somdej Wat Marukhathaiyawan is believed to provide a wide array of blessings:

• Metta Mahaniyom: Enhances loving-kindness and personal charm.

• Maha Lap: Brings good fortune and financial prosperity.

• Klaew Klaad: Offers protection from harm and misfortune.

• Baramee: Builds authority, dignity, and spiritual grace.

• Mental Peace: Promotes serenity and shields the wearer from suffering and agitation.

It is widely accepted that this amulet can be used as a substitute for Phra Somdej Toh amulets, given its powerful heritage and materials.

6. Biography of Luang Pu Nak, Wat Hua Hin

Luang Pu Nak was born in B.E. 2400 (1857) in Phetchaburi Province.

He first ordained as a novice at age 19 at Wat Lang Pom, under the preceptorship of the abbot of Wat Ban Laem. After years of rigorous monastic training and studying Buddhist magic, he temporarily left the monkhood to live as a layman but later returned to ordain again at Wat Ton Luang.

Luang Pu Nak was known for his extensive knowledge of ancient wicha (magical sciences) and had studied under several renowned masters, including:

• Luang Pho Tad, Wat Bang Wan Thong

• Luang Pho Aiem, Wat San Dan

• Luang Pho Phu, Wat Bang Ka Prom

• Luang Pho Suk, Wat Lang Pom

Later, he was invited by the local community to become the abbot of Wat Hua Hin, where he contributed significantly to temple development and the spread of Dhamma teachings.

Luang Pu Nak passed away on July 4, 1934, at the age of 77, having served in the monkhood for a total of 42 years.