Luang Pu Song (Lp Song) Wat Chao Fa Sala Loi, Chumphon
The Life and Legacy of Luang Pu Song Chanthasaro, Wat Chao Fa Sala Loi
Early Life and Ordination
Luang Pu Song was born on Tuesday, April 30, 1890 (first day of the waxing moon, sixth month, Year of the Tiger) in Tambon Wisai Nuea, Amphoe Sawi, Chumphon Province. He grew up in a humble rice farming family.
When he came of age, he was ordained as a monk at Wat Wisai Nuea, with Luang Pho Chuen of Wat Laem Po as his preceptor. He received the monastic name Chanthasaro. After a period of study and practice at Wat Wisai Nuea, Luang Pu Song moved to Wat Khuan in Tambon Wisai Nuea, where he focused on meditation and the study of magical knowledge.
Pilgrimage and Advanced Studies
Luang Pu Song embarked on a pilgrimage to practice vipassana meditation and seek advanced training from experienced teachers. During his travels, he reached Phuket Province and studied under Phra Ajahn Rod of Wat To Sae, a renowned monk of the time. For two years, he deepened his understanding of spiritual and magical knowledge before continuing his journey to other regions.
Revitalization of Wat Chao Fa Sala Loi
In 1919, Luang Pu Song encountered a mother and her child near an abandoned temple in Bang Luek Subdistrict, Amphoe Mueang, Chumphon Province. Guided by devotion, they invited him to reside at the dilapidated temple. The site was overgrown and in disrepair, with only remnants of old buildings and a chapel supported by four crumbling pillars.
Accepting their invitation, Luang Pu Song, with the help of local villagers, cleared the area and began restoring the temple. Through his leadership and efforts, the abandoned temple was transformed into a vibrant spiritual center, now known as Wat Chao Fa Sala Loi.
Interactions with Nature and Miracles
The Deer and Turtles:
A deer once wandered into the temple, staying for a year before returning to the forest. Remarkably, it frequently revisited the temple and always escaped hunters. Similarly, turtles from the nearby bamboo forest would often gather at the temple during important Buddhist holy days, as if drawn to Luang Pu Song’s presence.Sacred Speech:
Luang Pu Song’s words were believed to carry profound spiritual power. Followers recounted that his speech had miraculous effects, fostering reverence and moral discipline among his disciples.The Caged Bird Incident:
A high-ranking official once offered a four-legged animal in a cage to Luang Pu Song. When the cage was opened, a bird flew out instead, astonishing everyone present and reinforcing his reputation for miraculous abilities.The Rice Boat Story:
A boatman, familiar with Luang Pu Song, passed the temple without paying his respects. His rice-laden boat mysteriously circled in the river, refusing to move forward. Realizing the cause, the boatman sought Luang Pu’s forgiveness, which resolved the situation.
Healing Powers
Holy Water:
Luang Pu Song prepared holy water every morning, pouring it into jars for devotees to use. It was reputed to cure illnesses, exorcise spirits, and bring blessings. One notable incident involved a young girl believed to be possessed by a ghost. After being doused with Luang Pu’s holy water, her symptoms vanished instantly.The Fish Sauce Cure:
A woman suffering from chronic stomach pain sought Luang Pu’s help after conventional treatments failed. Luang Pu blessed a bottle of fish sauce, instructing her to drink it. Her pain disappeared completely, and the fish sauce gained a reputation for curing various ailments, including addiction and skin diseases.
Sacred Tobacco
Luang Pu Song’s habit of chewing tobacco transformed it into a revered sacred object. Devotees often requested his used tobacco, believing it carried his blessings. In one famous story, a man placed Luang Pu’s tobacco in his safe for protection. When burglars attempted to rob the safe, they reportedly saw nothing but a pile of tobacco and left empty-handed.
Historical Significance of Wat Chao Fa Sala Loi
Wat Chao Fa Sala Loi dates back to the late Ayutthaya period. According to Luang Pu Song, the temple was named “Chao Fa” in honor of a royal family member who once served as its abbot. “Sala Loi” refers to the surrounding village. Luang Pu often reminded his followers that the true abbot was Grandfather Chao Fa, and all novices undergoing ordination were required to seek permission from him. This tradition continues to this day.
Passing and Legacy
Luang Pu Song passed away peacefully on August 2, 1983, at the age of 94 years, 3 months, and 2 days. Despite his passing, his body has remained undecayed and is enshrined in a coffin at the Dharma Sangwet Hall at Wat Chao Fa Sala Loi, where devotees continue to pay homage.
His efforts to transform Wat Chao Fa Sala Loi into a thriving temple, along with his spiritual teachings and miraculous deeds, have left an enduring legacy. His sacred objects, such as amulets, holy water, and tobacco, remain revered for their spiritual potency, inspiring faith among devotees in Thailand and beyond.
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