Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is a significant royal Buddhist temple in Bangkok, Thailand, known for its historical importance dating back to 1610 and its role as the origin of the Dhammakaya tradition. The temple experienced a major revival in the 20th century under the meditation master Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro and later under Somdet Chuang Varapuñño, gaining prominence for its charitable works, international outreach, and notable architectural additions.
Key Facts
- ›Established in 1610 during the Ayutthaya period, making it an ancient royal temple.
- ›Underwent a significant revival in the early 20th century under the leadership of meditation master Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro.
- ›Is the origin of the Dhammakaya tradition, a prominent Buddhist movement.
- ›Features a large stupa, "Maharatchamongkhon," completed in 2012, and a large bronze Buddha image added in 2021.
- ›Known for its charitable activities and a project to promote the five precepts in Thai society.
- ›Has a notable history involving the stalled appointment of its former abbot, Somdet Chuang Varapuñño, as Supreme Patriarch.
Important Relationships
- Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro
- Somdet Chuang Varapuñño
- Mae chi Chandra Khonnokyoong
- Wat Phra Dhammakaya
- King Bhumibol Adulyadej
- King Suriyenthrathibodi
- King Taksin
- Rama III
- King Chulalongkorn
- King Rama VI
Maharatchamongkhon Stupa, Bronze Buddha Image, Preserved Body of Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro
- Establishment In 1610 During the Ayutthaya Period.
- Major Revival Under Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro Starting In 1916.
- Somdet Chuang VarapuññO's Tenure As Abbot .
- Construction of the Maharatchamongkhon Stupa .
- Construction of the Bronze Buddha Image .
- Controversy Surrounding Somdet Chuang VarapuññO's Nomination As Supreme Patriarch .
About Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, situated in Bangkok, Thailand, is a significant royal Buddhist temple with a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1610 during the Ayutthaya period. It is a prominent member of the Maha Nikaya fraternity and holds the distinction of being the birthplace of the Dhammakaya tradition. The temple has been a recipient of royal patronage throughout various periods of Thai history until the late nineteenth century.
Historical Context and Revival
By the turn of the twentieth century, Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen had fallen into a state of disrepair and was largely abandoned. A pivotal transformation occurred in 1916 when Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro was appointed abbot. Under his charismatic leadership, the temple was revitalized from a small, dilapidated structure with only thirteen monks into a thriving center for Buddhist education and meditation practice, accommodating hundreds of monks and mae chi (nuns). Luang Pu Sodh's teachings and meditation methods became widely known, and he also established a leading institute for Pali studies. His legacy continues through the sale of his teachings and meditations at the temple today.
Following Luang Pu Sodh's death in 1959, the temple continued its trajectory under the abbacy of Somdet Chuang Varapuñño, who served from 1960 until his passing in 2021. Somdet Chuang was instrumental in expanding the temple's activities and promoting Buddhist ethics in Thai society through nationwide projects. He also gained international attention when his appointment as Supreme Patriarch was stalled and ultimately withdrawn in 2015, a situation marked by significant political debate and protests.
Notable Features and Significance
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is currently recognized for its substantial architectural additions, including the immense "Maharatchamongkhon" stupa completed in 2012, which features intricate interior Buddhist art. In 2021, a large bronze Buddha image was installed in front of the stupa, enhancing the temple's appeal to international tourists. The temple is also a site of veneration for the preserved body of Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro, which remains a significant attraction for visitors paying their respects. The temple's commitment to charity and its nationwide project to propagate the five precepts underscore its role as a socially engaged religious institution with a long history of international engagement with Buddhists worldwide.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen founded?
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen was established in 1610, during the Ayutthaya period. Historical documents from 1780 onward also reference the temple under variations of its current name.
What is Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen known for?
The temple is known as the origin of the Dhammakaya tradition and for its significant revival in the 20th century under Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro. It is also recognized for its charitable activities, international connections, and impressive architectural features like its large stupa and bronze Buddha image.
Who was instrumental in the revival of Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen?
The temple underwent a major revival under the leadership of meditation master Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro, who became abbot in 1916. Later, Somdet Chuang Varapuñño also played a key role as abbot from 1960 to 2021.
What are some notable features of Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen?
Key features include the "Maharatchamongkhon" stupa, completed in 2012, which houses Buddhist art, and a large bronze Buddha image erected in front of the stupa in 2021. The preserved body of Luang Pu Sodh Candasaro in a coffin is also a significant attraction.
What is the significance of the Dhammakaya tradition in relation to Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen?
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is recognized as the origin of the Dhammakaya tradition. One of its mae chi (nuns), Mae chi Chandra Khonnokyoong, went on to establish Wat Phra Dhammakaya, which became widely known.
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