Luang Pu Kaew (Lp Kaew) Wat Lahanrai, Rayong

Biography of Luang Pu Kaew Kesaro

Wat Lahan Rai, Rayong Province

Early Life and Background

Luang Pu Kaew Kesaro was born in B.E. 2448 (1905) in Tha Kho Sub-district, Tha Wachi District, Roi Et Province. His birth name was Chiang Kham, and he was a member of the Khammee family.

At the age of 15, he ordained as a novice monk, studying under various teachers, primarily focusing on invulnerability (Kong Kraphan Chatri) and Maha-Ut (protection from danger). However, his rebellious nature led him to disrobe at the age of 22 and embark on a life of adventure and danger.

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A Life on the Run: The Turning Point

After leaving the monkhood, he became involved with hunters and bandits, eventually serving as the deputy leader under Suea Qing, a feared outlaw.

During one of their raids, he was shot in the back at close range but miraculously survived, with the bullets leaving only minor bruises. This confirmed his supernatural resilience, and his followers begged him to tattoo them for protection. However, as their crimes escalated, he grew remorseful and ceased tattooing altogether.

Eventually, he fled to Chachoengsao Province, hiding for 10 years before relocating to Ta Sit Subdistrict (now Nong Lalok Subdistrict).

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Re-Ordination and Spiritual Transformation

Haunted by his past misdeeds, he re-entered monkhood at the age of 60 at Wat Wai Krong. His preceptors included:

• Luang Pho Lat of Wat Nong Krabok (Preceptor)
• Phra Ajahn Kiang (Kammavacha Teacher)
• Phra Ajahn Sawat (Anusavana Teacher)

He received the monastic name Kesaro and continued his spiritual training under Phra Ajahn Kiang, a renowned Cambodian monk.

Later, he moved to Wat Lahan Rai, where he became a disciple of Luang Pu Tim Isarigo. He deeply respected Luang Pu Tim, referring to him as "Father", and dedicated himself to spiritual practice and mystical studies.

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Rise to Fame and Spiritual Legacy

His renown grew rapidly, largely due to Luang Pu Tim’s endorsement. He became famous for:

• Sacred oil tattoos (Sak Yant)
• Protective amulets
• Esoteric mystical knowledge

One notable story involved Captain Jamnian Tujinda, a Royal Thai Navy officer and royal bodyguard, who sought a protective tattoo. During the ritual, Luang Pu Kaew struck him with an unseen force, leaving him astonished at the immense spiritual energy.

Luang Pu Tim himself publicly acknowledged Luang Pu Kaew’s mastery, stating:

"Luang Pu Kaew has mastered the elements."

This solidified his reputation as one of Thailand’s great spiritual masters.

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Mystical Feats and Amulet Creation

One of his most famous incidents involved a disrespectful individual testing Luang Pu Tim’s "Charoenphon" amulet by shooting at it. Upon hearing this, Luang Pu Kaew became furious, declaring:

"How dare they test my father's amulet? If they want to test something, they should test mine instead!"

To prove his power, he urinated on a cut-down custard apple tree stump, instantly causing a lion-like roar to echo through the air.

Creation of His First Amulet Series

As he neared old age, he feared that his mystical knowledge would be lost, so he sought permission from Luang Pu Tim to create a series of commemorative coins.

The first-generation amulet series was produced with:

• Uncle Sai Kaewsawang (Treasurer of the temple)
• Mr. Chinporn Suksathit (Devoted disciple)

Upon seeing the amulet design, Luang Pu Tim remarked:

"Kaew has mastered it. This should be inscribed with the great mother-element yantra, ‘Na Ma Pa Tha.’”

These amulets remain highly sought after, known for their spiritual potency and historical significance.

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Final Years and Passing

As he aged, Luang Pu Kaew expressed two concerns:

1. That his mystical knowledge would not be passed down.
2. That his funeral would burden his disciples financially.

Despite declining health, he continued his Dhamma practice and spiritual guidance.

He passed away in B.E. 2547 (2004) at the age of 99, leaving behind a legacy of sacred knowledge, amulets, and spiritual wisdom.

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Legacy and Influence

Today, Luang Pu Kaew’s amulets and mystical tattoos remain highly revered. His extraordinary transformation from outlaw to monk serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of redemption and spiritual awakening.

His sacred amulets, spiritual teachings, and miraculous feats continue to be cherished, ensuring that his name remains among Thailand’s most legendary monks.

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Conclusion

Luang Pu Kaew Kesaro of Wat Lahan Rai was a remarkable monk who transitioned from a fearsome outlaw to a highly revered spiritual master. His mystical prowess, amulets, and teachings continue to inspire, making him a true legend in Thai spiritual history.

🙏 May his teachings and blessings continue to guide and protect all who follow his path. 🙏