Luang Pu Nak (LP Nak) Wat Hua Hin

 

Biography of Luang Pu Nak Punyanako, Wat Hua Hin

Monday, July 24, 2023, marked the 89th anniversary of the passing of Phra Khru Wiriya Thikaree, widely known as Luang Pu Nak Punyanako of Wat Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. He was a highly revered monk and a prominent teacher in the province, renowned for his deep knowledge of Vipassana meditation and Buddhist magic. His influence extended far beyond Hua Hin, earning him great respect from Buddhists across Thailand.

Legacy of Sacred Amulets

Luang Pu Nak was widely known for creating sacred amulets, which remain highly sought after today. His famous amulets include:

• Coins
• Lockets
• Beeswax charms
• Three-King Takruts
• Red cloth talismans
• Phra Somdej Wat Maruekhathaiyawan, among others.

Early Life and Ordination

Born in 1857 into the Puangpai family in Ban Lat Pho, Khlong Kra Saeng District, Phetchaburi Province, Luang Pu Nak began his early education at Wat Lat Pho under Phra Athikarn Muang. After a year, he moved to Wat Lak Pom in Samut Songkhram Province, where he studied Buddhist scriptures under Phra Athikarn Suk for several years.

At the age of 19, he entered the monkhood as a novice, and at 21, he was formally ordained at Wat Lang Pom. During his early years as a monk, he dedicated himself to Vipassana meditation and studied Buddhist magic under great masters, including:

• Luang Pho Tad of Wat Bang Wanthong, who was also the teacher of the renowned Luang Pho Kong of Wat Bang Kaphom.
• Luang Pho Aiem of Wat Lat Dan.
• Luang Pho Phu of Wat Bang Kaphom.

Temporary Disrobement and Return to Monkhood

In 1921, Luang Pu Nak briefly disrobed to assist his family. During this period, he married Nang Chaem, and they had one child. However, he soon became disillusioned with worldly life and decided to re-enter the monkhood, taking residence at Wat Ton Luang in Phetchaburi Province.

He later established Wat Wang Pong in Pran Buri District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province before being invited by local villagers to become the abbot of Wat Amparam, later renamed Wat Hua Hin.

Development of Wat Hua Hin

During the reign of King Rama V, Hua Hin's villagers built Wat Amparam (now Wat Hua Hin) and sought a respected monk to lead its development. Khun Sri Selakam (Ploy Krasae Sin), Kamnan To, and Phuyai Klam invited Luang Pu Nak to be its abbot.

Under his leadership, Wat Hua Hin flourished, becoming one of the most prominent temples in the region, maintaining its prosperity to this day.

Revered by Royalty

Luang Pu Nak was known for his extraordinary spiritual powers, his compassion, and his austere lifestyle. His reputation reached King Rama VI, who deeply revered him. Whenever the king stayed at Mrigadayavan Palace in Cha-am, Phetchaburi Province, he would personally visit Luang Pu Nak for blessings and discussions on Dhamma.

His Majesty even granted Luang Pu Nak direct access to his royal presence at any time, a privilege rarely bestowed upon monks.

Character and Teachings

Luang Pu Nak was a monk of profound wisdom and virtue. Those who recorded his teachings describe him as:

• Tranquil, composed, and kind.
• A man of few words, often teaching with short but deeply meaningful phrases.
• Compassionate and non-discriminatory, treating everyone with equal kindness.

Final Years and Passing

In 1932, he began suffering from joint swelling, which persisted despite ongoing treatment. His health gradually declined, and on July 24, 1934, Luang Pu Nak peacefully passed away at the age of 77, after 42 years in monkhood.

His funeral was a grand event, culminating in a royal cremation ceremony on March 17, 1935, as a mark of the highest respect from the Thai monarchy.

Conclusion

Luang Pu Nak of Wat Hua Hin remains one of Thailand’s most revered monks, known for his Dhamma teachings, meditation expertise, and sacred amulets. His legacy continues through his powerful amulets, the temple he developed, and the deep reverence of his followers. His teachings and spiritual influence endure, making him a guiding light for Buddhists across generations.