[Sacred Object Master] Luang Phor Thong
【Holy Relic Temple】wat banRai
[Statue Dimensions] Height 16cm, Width 13cm, Depth 13cm
[Introduction to Ganesha]
In Thai and Indian folklore, elephants are auspicious symbols and a representative of Indian culture. Indians believe elephants are animals with excellent memories, friendliness, perseverance, and a strong sense of loyalty. Therefore, those who wish for success in their endeavors often pay homage to and pray for the support of "Ganesha," the god of elephants, who is considered the god of destiny. In the Buddhist beliefs of Tibet and other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, he is also the god of wealth.
Pikanet, known as Ganesha in Hindu mythology and Phraphikeni or Genisean in Thailand, is called the "God of Wisdom," "God of Art," and "God of Success." In Hindu mythology, Ganesha represents health, wisdom, success, and wealth. He holds a very high position in Hinduism, with more followers than the Four-Faced God.
[Efficacy of Sacred Objects]
Ganesha represents wealth, wisdom, and all things beautiful. He is also one of the Buddha's protectors. Therefore, wearing this sacred object can ward off evil, protect from danger, boost both direct and indirect wealth, avoid backstabbing, improve interpersonal relationships, enhance power, aid career advancement, boost business, and bring good fortune. It is a beautiful and sacred object worthy of collection, wearing, and veneration.
The god of art, primarily for those seeking career success or fame in the arts. He brings wealth, wisdom, smooth sailing, good fortune, and many helpful people, ensuring opportunities abound.
Ganesha has two postures. The seated Ganesha is believed to bestow blessings and bring wealth, while the standing Ganesha is believed to subdue demons, ward off evil spirits, and avert disasters.
[Master's Introduction]
Luang Phor Thong, from northeastern Thailand, is a renowned monk in Thailand today and the chief disciple of Wat Ban Lee Luang Phor Koon.
Luang Phor Thong was born on August 31, 2492 BE (Buddhist Era), in Nuonsong Village, Wangxin Township, Pathai District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. *Nakhon Ratchasima Province is also known as "Nakhon Ratchasima Province".
Luang Phor Thong was ordained in 2514 BE at Wat Sra Kaew in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. At that time, Luang Phor Chao was the abbot, and Luang Phor Koon presided over the ceremony.
Luang Phor Koon recognized Luang Phor Thong's virtuous character, careful speech and conduct, humility and politeness. He saw that Luang Phor Thong was not only a monk who strictly adhered to celibacy but also very dedicated to the study of Buddhism. Therefore, Luang Phor Koon appreciated him and took him as a disciple, teaching him Buddhist teachings and magic, as well as various ancient Thai runes. He also had Luang Phor Thong assist him in making the first batch of amulets and talismans, which were very popular sacred objects in the northeastern region and still enjoy a good reputation today.
Because Luang Phor Thong was very dedicated to learning the teachings of Luang Phor Koon, Luang Phor Koon saw that he was indeed able to keep the precepts and diligently study Buddhism, so he generously taught him the methods of consecrating sacred objects.
He also taught him the method of meditation, so that his mind and supernatural powers could be fully focused on the sacred objects blessed by the master.
In 2517, Luang Phor Koon, seeing that Luang Phor Thong had made significant progress in his studies, decided to give him the opportunity to apply what he had learned. He then allowed him to participate in the creation and consecration of sacred objects, and the sacred objects he created are still renowned to this day.
Luang Phor Thong always followed Luang Phor Koon, and could be considered the closest among all the monks who supported Luang Phor Koon. No matter where Luang Phor Koon went to perform blessing and consecration ceremonies, Luang Phor Thong would always accompany him. Even when Luang Phor Koon went to other temples to practice, Luang Phor Thong would also be by his side, wholeheartedly supporting him without ever slacking off.
On one occasion, Mr. Mae Die Boon Song invited Luang Phor Koon to practice at Wat Rawai Temple on Phuket Island in the south. Luang Phor Thong also went with him for a year, and then returned to Wat Sra Kaew with Luang Phor Koon.
After that, he traveled with Luang Phor Koon to various places, including Chonburi, Lopburi, and Chiang Mai, and finally settled in Wat Banrai in Than Khun Tho district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, where he assisted in the development of the temple.
By 2533 BE (Buddhist Era), Luang Phor Koon, seeing that Luang Phor Thong had become a capable monk, decided he should go to a remote area to assist in religious development. He instructed Luang Phor Thong to go to Wat Phra Phutthachai in Thesati district of Chaiyaphum province to observe the rainy season retreat (Vassa) and practice there. This temple, secluded from worldly affairs, was ideal for meditation and other quiet practices, allowing for the advancement of Buddhist studies. Luang Phor Koon also had his other disciples send Luang Phor Thong various sacred objects, amulets, and robes, enabling him to perform rituals such as casting amulets, crafting gold amulets, and practicing acupuncture within the temple—practices that continue to this day. Luang Phor Thong was a crucial disciple of Luang Phor Koon, highly trusted and relied upon, and all of Luang Phor Koon's disciples acknowledged him as his most trusted disciple. Chaiyaphum province is also known as "Chaiyaphum Province".
Because all of Luang Phor Koon's amulets were made by Luang Phor Thong, Luang Phor Thong participated in the consecration and blessing of the most popular Luang Phor Koon amulets in Thailand, whether they were made in 2517, 2519, 2520 or 2521 BE. Regardless of which temple they were made in, Luang Phor Thong was involved in the process and the casting. In addition, Luang Phor Thong was always present to protect Luang Phor Koon during the consecration and blessing ceremonies at various temples.
Therefore, the claim that Luang Phor Koon was a living god of wealth in modern Thailand is widely accepted by most Thais. Furthermore, the various amulets made by Luang Phor Koon are believed to possess boundless Buddhist power, bringing blessings and good fortune to those who wear them. Businesses prosper, politics are harmonious, and life is peaceful and prosperous. Luang Phor Thong was also involved in all of this, so it can be said that the amulets made by Luang Phor Thong inherit the virtues of his master, and there is no doubt about their magical power.
In 2558, Luang Phor Thong returned to Wat Banrai in Tan Khun Tho district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, to continue his practice.
