Luang Pu Dee Phutthachoti Wat Nuea (Wat Thewsangkharam)

Biography of Phra Thepmongkhonrangsi (Luang Pu Dee Phutthachoti)

Phra Thepmongkhonrangsi, widely known as Luang Pu Dee Phutthachoti, was a revered monk and the former abbot of Wat Nuea (Wat Thewsangkharam) in Ban Nuea Subdistrict, Mueang District, Kanchanaburi Province. His life and contributions to Buddhism earned him great respect and devotion, not only from the people of Kanchanaburi but from across Thailand.

Early Life

Birth: January 29, 1873 (B.E. 2416)
Birthplace: Ban Tung Samo, Phanom Thuan District, Kanchanaburi Province
Parents: Mr. Thet and Mrs. Chan Ekchan

Ordination

First Ordination (Novice Monk):
- Year: 1891
- Location: Wat Thung Samo
- Preceptor: Phra Athikan Rot
- Disrobed after 6 months to assist his family.
Second Ordination (Bhikkhu):
- Preceptor: Phra Khru Wisutthirangsi (Luang Pu Chang)
- Teachers: Phra Athikan Rot and Phra Baidika Plian
- Religious Name: Phutthachoti

Monastic Life and Achievements

Luang Pu Dee demonstrated a deep dedication to studying Buddhist scriptures, Vipassana meditation, and magic arts. He excelled in chanting the Patimokkha, completing it in just his second year of monkhood. His spiritual journey included extensive travels for pilgrimage and learning under renowned monks, such as:

Phra Ajahn Koet, Wat Koktal, Nakhon Chai Si
Luang Pu Plian, Wat Tai, Kanchanaburi
Luang Pho Yim, Wat Nong Bua

Connection with Wat Nuea

In his 12th year as a monk, he developed a relationship with Phra Khru Singhi Burakhanachan (Luang Pho Sud), abbot of Wat Nuea.
Accompanied Luang Pho Sud on a pilgrimage to Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon, Myanmar.
Following Luang Pho Sud's passing, the temple committee and villagers invited Luang Pu Dee to become abbot of Wat Nuea, which he eventually accepted.

Leadership at Wat Nuea

Period as Abbot: Luang Pu Dee revitalized Wat Nuea, focusing on infrastructure, religious practices, and community welfare.
Developed temple structures, including permanent buildings, ceremonial processes, and cultural customs.
His leadership transformed Wat Nuea into a highly respected and exemplary temple, even receiving praise from His Holiness Somdej Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phra Vajirananavarorasa.

Association with Somdej Phra Nyanasamvara

Luang Pu Dee served as the preceptor for Somdej Phra Nyanasamvara, the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, during his initial ordination at Wat Nuea.

Royal Acknowledgment

In 1963, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit visited Wat Nuea, marking a significant event. The King granted permission for his initials, B.P.R., to be inscribed on the sacred cloth of a Buddha image created to raise funds for the temple.

Sacred Amulets and Relics

Luang Pu Dee was renowned for creating highly revered amulets and sacred objects, including:

Buddha statues
Phra Buddha Chinnarat coins
Phra Kring amulets
Luang Pu Dee statues and other talismans

These artifacts remain sought after by collectors and devotees for their spiritual significance.

Ecclesiastical Titles

Continuously promoted within the Sangha hierarchy.
Final Title: Phra Thepmongkhonrangsi, holding the position of Abbot of Kanchanaburi Province.

Passing

Year of Death: 1967 (B.E. 2510)
Age: 94 years
Years of Monkhood: 73 years

Legacy

Luang Pu Dee's contributions to Buddhism, his dedication to his temple and community, and his spiritual teachings continue to inspire and guide devotees. His life stands as a beacon of selflessness, kindness, and unwavering faith.

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