Visiting Wat Thung Hiang and Paying Respects to Revered Monk Luang Pu Boon - Chonburi - Thailand.

On this visit to Wat Thung Hiang in Chonburi, my intention was simple—to pay respects to the highly revered Luang Pu Boon, a monk known for his lifelong dedication to Buddhism, charity, and helping underprivileged children.

When I arrived at the temple around 11:00 am, Luang Pu Boon was already in his advanced years and resting on his sick bed. Despite his frail condition, being able to see him in person and offer my respects was a deeply meaningful experience. The atmosphere was calm and solemn, and I felt grateful for the opportunity to be in the presence of a monk who had devoted more than seven decades of his life to the Buddhist path.

At that moment, I did not realize how significant the visit would become. Later that same day, at approximately 6:30 pm, I received the news that Luang Pu Boon had peacefully passed away.

The news came as a surprise and filled me with a mixture of sadness, gratitude, and reflection. Looking back, I now understand that my visit that morning was not merely a temple visit, but a final opportunity to pay my respects to a revered master before his departure from this world.

This article is a record of that memorable day at Wat Thung Hiang, my visit to Luang Pu Boon, and the impressions left by a monk whose compassion and service touched countless lives.

One of the notable features at Wat Thung Hiang is the beautiful Phra Leela Buddha statue located in the front area of the temple grounds. The statue depicts the Buddha in the graceful walking posture, known in Thai as "Phra Leela," symbolizing compassion, peace, and the Buddha's journey to spread the Dhamma.

Inside Wat Thung Hiang, I also noticed a statue of Luang Pu Thep Lok Udon, a revered figure in Thai Buddhist tradition. Unlike many well-known monks whose lives are recorded in history, Luang Pu Thep Lok Udon is regarded as a legendary enlightened saint whose story has been passed down through generations.

According to Buddhist folklore, he is believed to be a highly attained arahant who continues to appear to worthy practitioners and meditation masters. Many devotees view him as a symbol of wisdom, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the Dhamma.

The statue at Wat Thung Hiang serves as a reminder of the deep spiritual traditions preserved within Thai Buddhism. Standing before the image, visitors are invited to reflect on the virtues of mindfulness, perseverance, and the pursuit of enlightenment.

During my visit, I found the presence of Luang Pu Thep Lok Udon's statue particularly meaningful, adding another layer of spiritual significance to the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.

The new dome pavilion, completed in BE2565. Beneath the spacious dome stands a collection of Buddha images in various postures, creating a peaceful environment for devotees to pay homage, meditate, and make merit. Behind the dome pavilion is the Bell Tower.

During my visit, I also noticed a hall where children under the care of the temple were engaged in various activities. From a distance, I could see them learning and interacting in a cheerful environment. Out of respect for their privacy and daily routine, I chose to observe quietly from afar and did not disturb them. The scene served as a meaningful reminder of Luang Pu Boon's longstanding commitment to supporting underprivileged children through the temple's charitable work.

Another area that drew my attention during the visit was the new big White Buddha of Wat Thung Hiang.

The crematorium and multipurpose event hall at Wat Thung Hiang reflect the temple's role as both a spiritual center and a place of community service, supporting religious ceremonies, charitable activities, and local gatherings.

The main wiharn at the center of Wat Thung Hiang serves as the temple's spiritual heart, housing sacred Buddha images and providing a peaceful space for worship, reflection, and merit-making.

Wat Thung Hiang is a comprehensive temple complex comprising prayer halls, monks' residences, children's welfare facilities, event halls, meditation areas, and a crematorium. Each building serves a unique role in supporting the temple's religious, charitable, educational, and community activities.

The prayer hall at Wat Thung Hiang, with the statue of Luang Pu Boon at its entrance, stands as a place of devotion and remembrance, reflecting the compassionate legacy of the Bunthawi Ruamyatmit Foundation and its support for underprivileged children and community welfare. The hall also reflects the spirit of the Bunthawi Ruamyatmit Foundation, established through Luang Pu Boon's charitable vision. The foundation has long supported underprivileged children, educational assistance programs, and various community welfare initiatives. Through these efforts, Wat Thung Hiang has become known not only as a place of worship but also as a center of compassion and social service.

The small shrine for Phra SIvali, Phra Sangkachai and Gumanthong.

Luang Pu Boon (PhraKru Sophonpattanapirom) is one of the more respected contemporary monks in eastern Thailand, known as much for his charitable work as for his amulets and spiritual lineage. Born on 12 February BE2474 in Chonburi Province. Ordained as a monk at age 20 and has spent more than seven decades in the monkhood. He became abbot of Wat Thung Hiang and developed a reputation for strict practice, humility, and social welfare work. The master is known for his compassion, charitable deeds, and quiet spiritual practice. In his early years, he studied under several legendary Thai monks and learned the secret arts of making the Phra Somdej at the renowned Wat Rakhang, where he was also taught authentic medicinal powders and talismans. In BE2529, he traveled to the mountainous regions of northern Thailand for spiritual practice and witnessed firsthand the poverty and lack of education for children in the high-altitude tribes. From then on, he vowed to dedicate his life to adopting and educating orphaned children in the mountains, and to date, more than two thousand children have completed their education. Luang Por Boon Saphano of Wat Thung Hiang inherited and studied numerous wicha traditions under distinguished masters, including Luang Por Suang, Luang Por Promma, Phor Than Klai, Luang Por Nak, and Luang Por Hin. He further received transmissions from the lineages of Wat Kruawan (Luang Por Kaew), Wat Sattahip (Luang Por Yi), and Luang Por Ophasi, among many others. Luang Pu Boon Sophano of Wat Thung Hiang peacefully passed away at the age of 95 on May 31, BE2569, which coincided with Visakha Bucha Day.

At the time of my visit, His Eminence Phra Mongkol Moli (Luang Pu Boon Sophano), the revered abbot of Wat Thung Hiang, was 95 years old and undergoing treatment for age-related health complications. After receiving medical care at the hospital, he had returned to Wat Thung Hiang to continue his recovery and rest under the care of his attendants and disciples. Despite his frail condition, devotees continued to visit the temple to pay their respects and express their gratitude for his decades of dedication to Buddhism, charitable work, and the welfare of underprivileged children.

During my visit to Wat Thung Hiang 11am morning, Luang Pu Boon Sophano was resting due to illness. Although his health had become fragile with age, I was grateful for the opportunity to pay my respects to him in person. Looking back, the visit became even more meaningful when I later learned that Luang Pu Boon peacefully passed away at approximately 6:30 pm on the same day.  I feel deeply saddened by the news. Although I knew his condition was serious, it is still difficult to accept. May he rest in peace, and may his teachings and kindness continue to inspire us.

As Luang Pu Boon's health had declined with age, Wat Thung Hiang appointed monks to assist with the temple's daily operations and the reception of devotees. During my visit, Phra RiewThong~Phra Surachai Thirapanyo were among the monks entrusted with these responsibilities. Their duties included welcoming visitors, coordinating merit-making activities, and receiving offerings from devotees who came to pay respects and support the temple's religious and charitable work. Their dedication ensured that the temple continued to function smoothly while providing guidance and assistance to the many devotees visiting Wat Thung Hiang.

Within the prayer hall, the altar is adorned with statues of the Buddha, a lifelike wax statue of Luang Pu Thep Lok Udon, and revered images of Luang Pu Thuad, Phra Phutthachan Toh, Luang Pu Mun, and Kruba Siwichai.

In addition to the main prayer hall, there are two other halls, each featuring its own altar filled with numerous Buddha images, revered monks and sacred statues.
 .

See more amulets by LP Boon Sophano - Wat Thung Hiang at:  

👉 https://thaiamulets-dhammapath.blogspot.com/search/label/Wat%20Thung%20Hiang?m=0

.

See more information of other temple at:  

👉 http://www.thaiamulets-dhammapath.blogspot.com/?m=0

Visit Wat Nom Prachansan – Temple of Phra Ajahn Jae & Giant Lersi Phetchachulakhan - Ayutthaya - Thailand.

As we traveled toward Wat Nom Prachansan, the atmosphere slowly began to change. The bright afternoon sky turned dark with heavy rain clouds gathering above the road. The wind became stronger, and the air carried the fresh scent of an approaching storm. By the time we arrived at the temple, the rain had already started falling steadily. Raindrops echoed across the temple grounds while the giant statue of Lersi (Ruesi) Phetchachulakhan stood powerfully beneath the grey sky. The combination of thunderclouds, cool rain, and sacred surroundings created a peaceful yet mystical atmosphere. The rain seemed to make the visit even more special. The temple felt calm and spiritual, with worshippers quietly praying while incense smoke drifted through the rainy air. Surrounded by the sound of rainfall and temple bells, the moment became unforgettable — a beautiful reminder of peace, faith, and reflection during our journey in Ayutthaya.

The temple is not far from the main road. The road is a bit narrow, but cars can easily pass each other. There is parking available within the temple grounds and in the surrounding area provided by the villagers; choose whichever is most convenient. Located in the historic province of Ayutthaya, Wat Nom Prachansan has become one of Thailand’s well-known spiritual destinations for devotees seeking blessings, protection, and merit-making. Unlike the ancient ruins that make Ayutthaya famous, this temple offers visitors a living spiritual experience rooted in Thai Buddhist and Lersi traditions. Thousands of local and international devotees visit every year to pray, make offerings, and receive blessings from the temple.

Wat Nom Prachasan, located in Wang Noi District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, is a popular destination for those seeking spiritual blessings. Its main highlight is Phra Ajahn Jae, who is highly respected for his sacred water bathing rituals and sacred tattoos. The main activities at the temple include the sacred Water Bathing, pray to the giant Lersi Phetchachulakhan and sacred tattooing. Phra Ajahn Jae personally performs the ceremony according to a set schedule.

The main altar for the giant statue of Lersi Phetchachulakhan, stood peacefully beneath a huge dome tent, sheltering visitors from the steady rain that continued to fall. By the time I arrived, evening was slowly approaching, and the temple grounds had become quiet and empty. There were no more visitors left in the temple except me. The sound of rain echoing around the sacred altar created a calm and mystical atmosphere, making the moment feel deeply personal and unforgettable.

Standing close before the giant statue of Lersi Por Gae Petcha Chulakarn was an unforgettable experience. The enormous sacred figure appeared even more majestic from nearby, with every detail of the face, crown, and expression revealing a powerful spiritual presence. As the rain continued to fall softly around the temple, the atmosphere became calm, mysterious, and deeply peaceful. Taking a close photo beside the giant Lersi felt like capturing a special spiritual moment during my visit to Wat Nom Prachansan.

"Phra Ajahn Jae," also known as Phra Jae or Luang Phi Jae, is the name used by disciples and the general public to refer to Phra Tawan Itthichoto, a 37-year-old (BE2569) monk at Wat Nom Prachansan. He was a young man seeking a virtuous teacher to learn sacred Buddhist Wicha magic. His admiration for the powerful Phra Hanuman led him to encounter the powerful lineage of Luang Pho Kuay Chutintharo of Wat Khositaram in ChaiNat. A miraculous event occurred when Phra Ajahn Jae dreamt of Luang Pho Kuay giving him a monastic robe to receive the transmission of Buddhist Wicha magic. He also received instruction in various disciplines from Ajarn Song Rodlek, a master craftsman of carving, inscribing, consecrating, and making sacred powders, and a tattoo artist who had served under Luang Pho Kuay for the longest time. The experience of learning from a powerful teacher began when Luang Phi Jae  had to travel three times to seek knowledge from Ajarn Song Rodlek. Finally, he requested permission to learn from a statue of Luang Pho Kuay (he learnt from lineage, not direct disciple), and thus became Phra Ajahn Jae, a figure highly respected and revered by the public. He is known for his tattooing, herbal medicine and  ritual cleansing baths to change fortunes and bring good luck, with hundreds of people waiting for his services daily. His amulets are sought after and collected due to the numerous testimonials from people across the country. 

The temple building and designated areas for making merit at Wat Nom Prachansan.

The Crematorium and new building under construction.

To inside the traditional Thai House prayer hall and amulet counter, I was greeted by a helper who informed me that Phra Ajahn Jae was not present during my visit.

The Traditional Thai house (His Holiness Somdej Phra Maha Ratchamongkol Muni, Somdej Phra Thongchai Thammachot).

The temple’s koi pond and garden offered a peaceful contrast to the rainy atmosphere, with colorful koi swimming calmly beneath the soft drizzle. Surrounded by greenery, the area felt quiet and serene, adding a natural balance to the spiritual setting of Wat Nom Prachansan. Nearby, the statue of the Phayanak (sacred Naga serpent) stood gracefully, symbolizing protection, prosperity, and the connection between water and spiritual realms. The combination of flowing water, lush garden, and the powerful Naga figure created a deeply atmospheric scene, enhancing the temple’s mystical and sacred feeling.

The surrounding area of Wat Nom Prachansan was quiet and reflective, especially under the soft evening rain. Paths around the temple were lined with simple structures, trees, and small shrines, all blending into a peaceful spiritual environment. The Bell Tower stood nearby, its structure rising calmly above the grounds. Occasionally, the gentle sound of bells echoed through the rain, adding a sacred rhythm to the atmosphere. The combination of wet stone paths, distant temple sounds, and fading daylight created a serene and almost meditative mood as the visit came to an end.

.

See more amulets by Phra Ajahn Jae - Wat Nom Prachansan at:  

👉 https://thaiamulets-dhammapath.blogspot.com/search/label/Ajahn%20Jae?m=0

.

See more information of other temple at:  

👉 http://www.thaiamulets-dhammapath.blogspot.com/?m=0

Revisited Famous Chinese Temple 同声善堂 (Tóng Shēng Shàn Táng) & Thong Sia Siang Thung Foundation - Song DaFeng (宋大峰祖師) Chinese Temple - HatYai City - Songkhla - Thailand.

Visiting Thong Sia Siang Thung Temple brings a peaceful and meaningful feeling. The calm atmosphere, the scent of incense, and the beautiful Chinese architecture create a sense of respect and spiritual connection. Giving a donation at the temple feels especially rewarding because it helps support charity work and people in need. It is not only an act of worship, but also a way to share kindness, compassion, and blessings with the community.

Thong Sia Siang Thung Foundation Temple is one of the most respected Chinese charitable temples in Hat Yai, Thailand. Established by the local Chinese community, the temple serves both as a place of worship and a center for charity and community service. Deeply rooted in Chinese culture and traditions, the foundation reflects the strong heritage of the Thai-Chinese community in southern Thailand. The temple is well known for its beautiful Chinese architecture, colorful decorations, and sacred shrines dedicated to various Chinese deities such as Song DaFeng (宋大峰祖師), Tua Pek Gong (福德伯公) and Mae Chao Lim Ko Niao (林府姑娘). Besides religious activities, the foundation is also involved in humanitarian work, including rescue services, funeral assistance, and support for people in need. Thong Sia Sieng Thung Foundation plays an important role during major Chinese festivals, especially the Vegetarian Festival, when thousands of devotees gather for ceremonies, prayers, and cultural celebrations. Today, the temple remains a symbol of faith, compassion, unity, and traditional Chinese values in Hat Yai.

The PaiFang (牌坊) of Thong Sia Siang Thung Temple (同聲善堂) is a ceremonial archway that marks the sacred entrance to the temple dedicated to Song Da Feng Zu Shi (宋大峰祖師), a respected figure known for promoting kindness, compassion, and helping others. The PaiFang symbolizes blessings, protection, and the temple’s charitable spirit. Next to the PaiFang is the donation building of the Thong Sia Siang Thung Foundation, where devotees and visitors can contribute donations to support charity work and help people in need. It reflects the temple’s mission of compassion, generosity, and community care.

This is the donation area located inside the foundation office building, where devotees and visitors can make charitable contributions.

The main pavilion of Thong Sia Siang Thung Temple (同声善堂), featuring traditional Chinese architectural design and religious ornamentation.

Song DaFeng (宋大峰祖師) a Buddhist monk of the Song Dynasty, once engaged in charities provided help collected corpses for free cremated and funeral, medical care, education, bridge building and other charities in Chaoyang of Guangdong Province. Song DaFeng (宋大峰祖師) was born in Zhejiang Province in year 1039 to a Wenzhou wealthy family, by surname Lin (林灵噩) from Fujian. When childhood, he studying Buddhist scriptures and got imperial Scholars awards and engaged magistrate duties. Until the age of 54, the political corruption was disappointed, he was quit and ordained as monk and promoted Buddhism everywhere. At the age of 81, heavy rains caused river flooding in Chaoyang of Guangdong Province, triggering plagues and other disasters and resulting in many unclaimed bodies. Song DaFeng (宋大峰祖師) collects corpses for cremation, sets up clinics, supplies food to those in need, and educates his disciples on the virtues of helping others. At year 1127, Song DaFeng was passed away at 88 years old. Because of the Song DaFeng (宋大峰祖師) merits, everyone is grateful. Therefore, after the death, it was widely enshrined by the Chaoshan people. There were many temples in Chaoshan, Hong Kong and other places in Southeast Asia also worshipped the Song DaFeng (宋大峰祖師).

Praying to Song Da Feng Zu Shi (宋大峰祖師) brings a feeling of peace, comfort, and spiritual strength. His teachings of compassion and helping others inspire devotees to practice kindness and generosity. Standing before his altar, many people feel calm, protected, and grateful while praying for blessings, good health, and guidance in life.

Photo taken with 福德正神 or 福德伯公, the revered deity of prosperity, protection and the landlord.

The altar is dedicated to 林府姑娘, Mae Chao Lim Ko Niao of Pattani origin. Positioned at the front is a Guman body dating from BE2537, where worshippers come to pray and pay their respects.

Displayed within the Thong Sia Siang Thung Foundation are portraits of its founder, Yongkiat Paiboon, established in BE2499, together with the committee members of the foundation.

Inside the pavilion of the Thong Sia Siang Thung Temple, numerous red lanterns hang beautifully from the ceiling, creating a traditional and festive atmosphere.

The whole area of Thong Sia Siang Thung Foundation with the building for the rescue division. Thong Sia Siang Thung Foundation is well known for its community welfare work and charitable services. Its activities include a dedicated rescue division that provides volunteer emergency support and disaster relief assistance. These services typically cover ambulance and basic emergency transport, first aid at incident scenes, disaster response for floods, fires, and accidents, as well as funeral support and coffin donations. In addition, the foundation may also operate free clinics and other forms of welfare aid for those in need.

The spacious hall at Thong Sia Siang Thung Temple, featuring a large awning, serves as a venue for various religious, cultural, and community events. Adjacent to the hall is the 三寶佛公 Pavilion, which enshrines statues of the Buddha, Bodhisattva Guanyin, and the Laughing Buddha.

The Dragon pillar in Thong Sia Siang Thung temple. The dragon is a symbol of power, protection, and good fortune, so it is often carved or painted on on Pillar for symbolize protection of the sacred space with strength, prosperity, and spiritual guardianship.

Within the Thong Sia Siang Thung Temple complex, there is a shrine dedicated to Brahma (Phra Phrom), where devotees offer prayers for blessings, protection, and good fortune.

Another shrine dedicated to Phra Pikanet (Ganesha), where devotees offer prayers for blessings, wisdom, protection, and good fortune.
 . 

See more amulets Song DaFeng (宋大峰祖師) by 同声善堂 - Tóng Shēng Shàn Táng at:

👉 https://thaiamulets-dhammapath.blogspot.com/search/label/%E5%90%8C%E5%A3%B0%E5%96%84%E5%A0%82%20-%20T%C3%B3ng%20Sh%C4%93ng%20Sh%C3%A0n%20T%C3%A1ng?m=0

.

See more Thai amulets at:

👉 http://www.thaiamulets-dhammapath.blogspot.com/?m=0