Luang Phor Kuen (Lp Kuen) Wat Don Yan Nawa

 

Biography of Luang Phor Kuen (LP Kuen) Wat Don Yan Nawa

Early Life and Ordination

Luang Phor Kuen, also known as Luang Phor Khuan, was a revered monk of Wat Don Yan Nawa, renowned for his mastery in Buddhist magic and mystical sciences. Although the exact date of his birth remains uncertain, oral traditions and historical accounts indicate that he was a monk of significant spiritual charisma.

At the age of 20, he entered monkhood at Wat Don Yan Nawa, receiving ordination from a respected senior monk. He dedicated himself to the study of Dhamma, Vinaya (monastic discipline), Buddhist scriptures, and magical texts with exceptional diligence. His unwavering commitment and deep knowledge later earned him great reverence among the Buddhist community.

Luang Phor Kuen, also known as Phra Khru Kalyanawisutthi, was another prominent monk of Wat Don Yan Nawa. Born in 1879 in the Ban Dawei area of Yan Nawa District, Bangkok, he was of Dawei descent. After the passing of Phra Upacharya Chan, the former abbot, Luang Phor Kuen took over as abbot and led the temple for several decades. He passed away in B.E. 2507 (1964).

Mastery of Buddhist Magic and Occult Knowledge

Both Luang Phor Kuen and Luang Phor Kuen demonstrated an early interest in Buddhist magic, sacred spells, and incantations. They traveled extensively to seek knowledge and studied under some of the most renowned monks of their time, including:

• Luang Phor Kong of Wat Bang Kaphom
• Luang Phor Klan of Wat Phra Yatikaram
• Phra Upacharya Chan of Wat Don Yan Nawa
• Ajahn Piem, a renowned teacher of mystical arts

They specialized in various sacred sciences, including:

• Maha Niyom (great charm and popularity)
• Metta Maha Lap (compassion and great fortune)
• Klaew Klad (evasion from danger)
• Kong Kraphan Chatri (invulnerability and protection from weapons)
• The consecration of amulets and talismans

This extensive knowledge and spiritual power made both monks highly respected for crafting sacred amulets, attracting a strong following among both laypeople and fellow monks.

Sacred Amulets and Their Legacy

Amulets Created by Luang Phor Kuen

Luang Pgor Kuen was particularly known for creating powerful amulets, including:

• Phra Pidta – A highly revered amulet providing supreme protection, obstacle removal, and Metta Maha Niyom (charm and likability).
• Takrut Maha Rangap – A sacred scroll amulet known for warding off danger and shielding the wearer from bad karma.
• Phra Somdej Wat Don Yan Nawa – An amulet consecrated by Luang Phor Kuen, believed to bring prosperity, success in business, and good fortune.
• Sacred cloths & mystical incantation scrolls – Various items crafted to enhance the well-being of his followers.

Phra Kring Fa Pha by Luang Phor Kuen

In B.E. 2480 (1937), during the Indochina War, Luang Phor Kuen, who had previously served as a soldier, felt the need to support his country in a manner befitting a monk. He decided to create the Phra Kring Fa Pha amulet to distribute among his disciples and the Dawei community members who were heading to the battlefield.

To ensure the sanctity of the Phra Kring Fa Pha, he sought permission from Somdej Phra Sangkharat (Pae) of Wat Suthat Thepwararam to conduct a grand consecration ceremony. Somdej Phra Sangkharat not only approved but also provided sacred inscribed gold sheets and metal alloys from earlier Phra Kring amulets to be used in the casting process.

The ceremony was marked by two miraculous events:

1. A sudden thunderbolt struck the ceremony area, causing astonishment among attendees, yet no harm befell anyone.
2. A gust of wind blew the sacred thread held by Somdej Phra Sangkharat into the molten metal, but it remained unscathed.

These occurrences led to the amulet being named "Phra Kring Fa Pha" (Thunderbolt Amulet). The amulet was crafted in the traditional method, with a small metal bead inside that produces a sound when shaken, symbolizing the dissemination of Buddhist teachings.

Features of Phra Kring Fa Pha

• The Buddha is seated in the Mara Vijaya (victory over Mara) posture atop a double-layered lotus pedestal.
• The back of the amulet features a halo with inscribed Khmer script.
• The metal composition is a yellowish-brown alloy.
• It was produced in two sizes, both with identical designs.

Today, Phra Kring Fa Pha is highly esteemed among collectors and devotees, recognized as part of the revered lineage of Wat Suthat amulets. Its miraculous consecration and sacred origins contribute to its enduring popularity and reputation.

Later Years and Passing

Throughout their lives, Luang Phor Kuen and Luang Phor Kuen remained dedicated to spiritual practice and the welfare of their disciples. They were deeply respected by the local community in Yan Nawa and neighboring areas, with many seeking their guidance and blessings.

• Luang Phor Kuen passed away in B.E. 2507 (1964) after leading Wat Don Yan Nawa for decades.
• Luang Phor Kuen also passed away peacefully at an advanced age, leaving behind a strong legacy of spiritual wisdom and sacred amulets.

Legacy and Influence

The teachings, amulets, and spiritual works of both Luang Phor Kuen and Luang Phor Kuen continue to inspire devotees. The sacred objects they created remain highly valued, not only for their historical significance but also for their profound spiritual power.

Today, Wat Don Yan Nawa remains a center of faith, where believers continue to honor their memory, seek their spiritual protection, and pay respects to the sacred amulets they left behind.