Luang Phor Chaem Thammalo Wat Wang Daeng Nuea

Biography and Life Story of Luang Phor Chaem Thammalo

Wat Wang Daeng Nuea, Tha Ruea District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Luang Phor Chaem Thammalo, whose monastic title was Phra Khru Praphas Thammakhun, served as the abbot of Wat Wang Daeng Nuea in Tha Ruea District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. He was widely respected as a monk knowledgeable in traditional Buddhist practices as well as sacred sciences. Within the Pa Sak River region, he was regarded as one of the prominent monks of his generation.

Early Life

Luang Phor Chaem was born on 28 May BE 2446, a Thursday, on the 3rd day of the 5th lunar month in the Year of the Rabbit. His birthplace was Wang Daeng Village, Moo 4, Wang Daeng Subdistrict, Tha Ruea District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province.

His father’s name was Mr. Bang, and his mother was Mrs. Sum Phetcharak.

During his childhood, his father sent him to study at Wat Wang Daeng Nuea, where he learned under Luang Phor Sa, the abbot of the temple at that time. At the temple school he studied Thai and Khmer scripts, both of which were important for religious study and ritual practice.

Luang Phor Chaem became especially skilled in writing Khmer script. His handwriting was said to be so neat and precise that it resembled printed text.

While studying at the temple, he also practiced Samatha meditation, a method used to train the mind to develop calmness and concentration. According to the teachings passed down at the temple, a mind that develops concentration becomes capable of deeper understanding and wisdom.

In addition to meditation practice, Luang Phor Chaem received instruction in traditional sacred sciences from Luang Phor Sa. Through this training he became familiar with ritual knowledge and incantations even before entering the monkhood.

Ordination

When he reached the age of twenty, Luang Phor Chaem entered the monastic life. He was ordained on 20 March BE 2466 at Wat Wang Daeng Tai.

His preceptor was Phra Adhikar Sa, the abbot of Wat Wang Daeng Nuea.

His assistant preceptor was Phra Adhikar Po, the deputy abbot of Wat Wang Daeng Nuea.

Another assisting monk in the ceremony was Phra Samuh Choti of Wat Sala Loi.

After ordination he received the monastic name “Thammalo.”

Monastic Conduct and Study

After becoming a monk, Luang Phor Chaem continued to reside at Wat Wang Daeng Nuea, where he studied the Dhamma and Vinaya with dedication. He was known for maintaining calm composure in his behaviour and carefully observing monastic discipline.

He showed great respect toward senior monks and remained close to his teachers, assisting them in temple duties and religious activities. Because of his diligence and respectful conduct, he gained the trust and appreciation of his preceptor.

In his fourth year of monkhood, Luang Phor Chaem began studying Buddhist incantations and ritual knowledge more deeply. He received instruction from his teachers Phra Ajarn Sa and Abbot Po, learning various traditional disciplines connected with sacred ceremonies and protective rituals.

He also sought further knowledge outside the temple by becoming a disciple of Ajarn Perm, a respected lay practitioner in the region who was known for his knowledge of ritual arts.

Training in Sacred Arts

One of the disciplines he studied was the creation of sacred ritual knives and penknives, objects that required complex ceremonial procedures and detailed ritual knowledge.

The techniques for creating these sacred items involved complicated steps and strict ritual requirements. Because of this complexity, not many practitioners were able to master the method. Luang Phor Chaem’s success in learning this knowledge demonstrated his determination and patience.

For many years he continued studying and practicing these sacred disciplines quietly without displaying any particular reputation. Only after the passing of his teachers did he begin using his knowledge to assist people who came to seek help.

Reputation Among the People

Over time, word of Luang Phor Chaem’s abilities spread among the local communities. People experiencing emotional distress or personal difficulties began traveling from nearby villages and distant districts to seek his guidance.

Visitors came regularly to Wat Wang Daeng Nuea, sometimes in large numbers. Despite the constant flow of people seeking help, Luang Phor Chaem remained patient and kind, rarely showing signs of fatigue.

Those who met him often spoke about his warm hospitality and compassionate conversation. Many visitors who came once would return repeatedly to pay their respects, as they felt comforted by his presence and teachings.

Astrology and Sacred Water

Luang Phor Chaem was also known for his knowledge of astrology and ritual practices involving holy water.

His astrological readings were said to be very accurate, which further strengthened the faith people placed in him. Because of this reputation, people from many backgrounds came to consult him.

Several well-known individuals of the time were said to have witnessed his abilities, including:

• Mr. Apai Chantawimon, former Minister of Education

• Mr. Khum Saengsilp, former Deputy Governor of Phang Nga Province

• Colonel Prawan Pradithanont

• Lieutenant Colonel Thira Phutthiranon

These accounts contributed to his growing reputation throughout the Pa Sak River region.

Passing

Luang Phor Chaem Thammalo passed away peacefully on 8 March BE 2515.

After his passing, devotees continued to remember him as an important spiritual figure of the southern Pa Sak River basin, where he was often referred to as a respected monk of great merit.

Throughout his life he dedicated himself to the service of Buddhism and the welfare of the community. Even after his passing, the good deeds he performed and the guidance he offered remain part of the memories held by many people in Ayutthaya.

Sacred Objects

Several sacred objects are associated with the lineage of Luang Phor Chaem of Wat Wang Daeng Nuea.

Among the items attributed to him are:

• Phra Khun Phaen amulets made from clay mixed with 108 types of herbs

• Sacred ritual knives and swords used in ceremonial practices

• First-generation commemorative coins

These objects are appreciated by collectors and devotees in the surrounding regions. Because they are connected with a respected monk from Ayutthaya, they continue to hold cultural and historical significance among those who study Thai Buddhist amulets.

Explore more from Thai Amulets Collection: browse all amulets, monk biographies, or discover katha sacred chants.

For broader context on Thai Buddhist traditions, see Thai amulets on Wikipedia.