Luang Phor Tae (Lp Tae) Wat Sam Ngam

Luang Phor Tae (Lp Tae), Wat Sam Ngam

BE2434 - BE2524

(101 Years old)

Luang Phor Taw of Wat Sam Ngam, Nokkhon Pathom Province, was born on June 15 1981, to Mr. Chan and Mers Bu Samngamnoi, in Ban Sam Ngam, Village No. 4. He was one of seven siblings. 

At the age of 15, Luang Phor Tae was ordained at Wat Sam Ngam in 1911 under the guidance of Luang Por Tha of Wat Phaniang Taek. His journey into monkhood began with the mentorship of Luang Lung Daeng, a respected monk who saw the need for a temple in Ban Sam Ngam to promote Buddhist practice.

Luang Lung Daeng's vision resulted in the establishment of a temple in Ban Don Tum, about 3 kilometers from Ban Sam Ngam. Luang Phor Tae played an active role in building this temple while deepening his understanding of Buddhism and the mystical arts under his mentor's guidance.

In 1911, at 21, Luang Phor Tae was fully ordained as a monk by Phrakhru Uttarakabadi (Luang Por Tha) of Wat Phaniang Taek and received the religious name Kong Thong. This marked the beginning of his formal training in Buddhist teachings and meditation.

Between 1912 and 1929, Luang Phor Tae embarked on a 17-year pilgrimage, studying under various masters such as Luang Phor Chaem of Wat Takong and Luang PhorKon of Wat Bo Takua. His quest for knowledge also led him to study with lay teachers, including a respected Khmer master.

After returning to Wat Sam Ngam, Luang Phor Tae dedicated himself to temple development. He faced challenges such as sourcing materials from the forest and working in hazardous conditions, yet his efforts resulted in essential community infrastructure, including health stations, schools, and wells.

Known for his kindness and compassion, Luang Phor Tae was beloved by his students and even extended his care to animals. His spiritual creations, including clay amulets and talismans, were crafted to emphasize Buddhist virtues, focusing more on their protective and empowering qualities than their appearance.

In 1932, he was appointed abbot of Wat Sam Ngam by the Provincial Sangha Committee and became the Subdistrict Abbot in 1933, overseeing several temples in the area.

Luang Phor Tae's sacred objects, such as Kumanthong and takruds, became widely popular due to their reputed miraculous powers. His legacy of Buddhist virtues and teachings continues to be honored by believers to this day.

He peacefully passed away on December 25, 1981, at the age of 80, leaving behind a lasting spiritual legacy. Today, Wat Sam Ngam preserves his memory, keeping his body for disciples to venerate.