Luang Phor Kong (Lp Kong) Wat Takhro, Nakhon Ratchasima

 

Luang Pu Kong of Wat Takhro: A Revered Monk of Thailand

1. Revered Legacy and Character

Luang Pu Kong of Wat Takhro was a monk of great moral integrity and virtuous behavior. He was deeply respected, even by renowned monks such as Luang Pho Koon of Wat Ban Rai. Known for his kindness and humility, Luang Pu welcomed all who came to see him—rich or poor, villagers or city dwellers—with equal compassion.

Every visitor who paid respect to him would receive a handful of sacred items, a reflection of his generosity and spiritual power. His amulets and sacred objects are believed to carry strong and effective blessings, rooted in his extensive knowledge of sacred arts and profound experience.

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2. Biography of Phra Khru Kongkhonkhonphithak (Luang Pu Kong)

• Birth Name: Kong Thepnok

• Monastic Title: Phra Khru Kongkhonkhonphithak

• Dharma Name: Thitipanyo (meaning “One with Steadfast Wisdom”)

• Date of Birth: Sunday, May 20, 1910 (Year of the Pig)

• Hometown: Ban Kon Muang, Thepalai Subdistrict, Kong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province

• Ordination Date: May 20, 1932 (Age 22)

• Ordained at: Wat Ban Wat

• Preceptor: Phra Khru Silwisutthiphon (Wat Derm)

• Kammavachachana: Phra Ajarn Thongsuk Suchato

• Anusavanachanachan: Phra Ajarn Tim Sumano

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3. Contributions to Wat Takhro and Community Development

Throughout his lifetime, Luang Pu Kong made significant contributions to Wat Takhro and its surroundings. He led numerous renovation and construction projects, including:

• Monk’s huts

• Pavilions

• Dining halls

• Infrastructure for schools and hospitals

Because of his efforts, Wat Takhro became widely recognized and was awarded the title of “Model Development Temple” in 1988 by the Department of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Education.

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4. Sacred Objects and Symbolism

• First Sacred Batch: Created in 1953 in the form of Phra Somdej amulets

• Purpose: To serve as reminders of the Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha

• Personal Yantra: “Na Krop Chakrawat Yantra”

  • This symbol is believed to have universal applications, with blessings depending on the devotee's intention and prayer.

Luang Pu Kong frequently emphasized the law of impermanence—everything arises, changes, and ceases—a core teaching he shared with all his followers.

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5. Passing and Legacy

On June 5, 2005, Luang Pu Kong experienced chest pain during an ordination ceremony and requested to step down. He passed away peacefully, fully conscious, at his residence.

His disciples, led by Phra Khru Athonkittiyarak, initiated the construction of a museum-pagoda at Wat Takhro to enshrine:

• Buddha relics

• Luang Pu’s remains

• His personal items and sacred amulets

The enshrinement ceremony took place in 2553 BE (2010 CE).

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6. Stories of Protection and Miraculous Events

(a) Bamboo Incident – July 1998

Witness: Mrs. Sai Tokhangplu (Ban Nong Chik, Nong Manao Subdistrict)
While cutting bamboo, a large stalk fell and hit her neck where her Luang Pu Kong amulet was worn. Miraculously, she was unharmed—no cuts or bruises were found—despite the force of the impact.

(b) Gunshot Survival – April 24, 1991

Victim: Ms. Sudjai Chanphum (Bangkok)
Ms. Sudjai was shot by her ex-husband during a domestic dispute. The bullet struck her left shoulder, but only left a small red bruise. She was wearing the "Young Skin Tough Girl" edition of Luang Pu Kong’s amulet at the time.

The incident gained wide media attention and solidified the edition’s name and reputation. Her amulet was obtained from Wat Sam Ngam (Chamni Hatthakan Temple).

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7. Spiritual Influence

Luang Pu Kong is widely regarded as a Vipassana monk of great spiritual depth. His teachings, kindness, and sacred creations continue to inspire reverence and devotion among Buddhists throughout Thailand and beyond.