Luang Phor Chan Inamutto (Lp Chan / Phra Mongkhon Worakorn) Wat Bang Bo

 

Biography of Luang Phor Chan Inamutto (Phra Mongkhon Worakorn), Former Abbot of Wat Bang Bo

A Revered Monk of Samut Prakan Province

April 3, 2020, marked the 106th anniversary of the birth of Phra Mongkhon Worakorn, widely known as Luang Phor Chan Inamutto, the former abbot of Wat Bang Bo, Samut Prakan Province. He was highly revered for his sacred objects, which were believed to possess miraculous powers that could transform misfortune into good fortune.

Early Life and Ordination

Born Chan Rotthong on April 3, 1914, in Ko Rai Subdistrict, Ban Pho District, Chachoengsao Province, Luang Phor Chan displayed an early inclination toward spiritual life. At the age of 20, he entered the monkhood on April 3, 1933, at Wat Theparat, Ban Pho District, Chachoengsao Province, under the guidance of Phra Athikarn Boonluea Sophono as his preceptor, receiving the monastic name Inamutto.

Spiritual Training and Pilgrimage

After ordination, Luang Phor Chan initially resided at Wat Khlong Suan before moving to Wat Niyomyatra, where he spent 32 years. During this period, he immersed himself in deep meditation and spiritual studies, training under two renowned monks of the Indochinese era:

• Luang Phor Leu of Wat Sao Cha-ngok
• Luang Phor Jad of Wat Bang Krabea, Prachin Buri Province

Among his teachers, Luang Phor Leu is regarded as his primary mentor. His dedication to learning led him to seek knowledge in invulnerability, escapism, and traditional medicine. His pilgrimage took him across regions until he met Luang Phor Pan of Wat Bang Hia (Wat Suan Luang), Samut Prakan Province, where he became a devoted disciple. During this period, he also formed a close bond with Luang Phor Nok of Wat Sangkasi, another esteemed monk of Samut Prakan.

Mastery of Sacred Knowledge

Under the mentorship of Luang Phor Pan, he honed his expertise in meditation, Samatha practice, and the consecration of sacred objects. This knowledge, passed down through generations, became a key aspect of his spiritual legacy. His ability to set up and support the elements within sacred objects played a crucial role in their effectiveness, a technique well understood by his disciples.

Contributions to the Temple and Community

Beyond his spiritual achievements, Luang Phor Chan was instrumental in developing Wat Bang Bo and enhancing religious infrastructure. His notable contributions include:

• Construction of key structures, such as a prayer hall, Thai-style hut, temple gate, Buddhist school, and smoke-free crematorium.
• Recognition of Wat Bang Bo as an outstanding developed temple in 2004.
• Establishing Bang Bo Temple Primary School and supporting all educational institutions within his administrative region.

Roles in the Sangha Administration

Luang Phor Chan held several significant positions within the Sangha:

• 1967 – Appointed abbot of Wat Bang Bo and established a structured temple committee to regulate temple affairs.
• 1970 – Appointed abbot of Bang Bo District.
• 1998 – Became advisor to the abbot of Bang Bo District.
• Ecclesiastical Rank Promotions:
  • 1967 – Elevated to Phrakhru Sanyabat (Phrakhru Wichian Thammakhun).
  • 2008 – Promoted to Phra Mongkhon Worakorn.

Creation of Sacred Amulets

Unlike many monks, Luang Phor Chan did not frequently create amulets. His sacred objects were only crafted on special occasions, making them rare and highly sought after. His reputation as a genuine and spiritually powerful monk led to his participation in numerous major amulet blessing ceremonies across the country, especially in the eastern regions.

Passing and Lasting Legacy

On July 10, 2018, Luang Phor Chan passed away peacefully at Bang Bo Hospital at the age of 104, after 84 years of monkhood. His teachings, sacred amulets, and contributions to Buddhism continue to be revered, making him one of the most respected monks of Samut Prakan Province.

His disciples and devotees continue to honor his legacy, preserving his teachings and spiritual practices for future generations.