Ajahn Sao Kantasīlo
Ajahn Sao Kantasilo was a prominent monk in the Thai Forest Tradition of Theravada Buddhism, belonging to the Dhammayuttika Nikaya. He is recognized for his rigorous practice of meditation and asceticism, deeply influencing his many students, including the renowned Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta. Ajahn Sao emphasized diligence and consistency in spiritual practice, urging disciples to dedicate long hours to meditation.
Key Facts
- ›Ordained as a monk in the Maha Nikaya order at age 20, later re-ordaining in the Dhammayut order in 1887.
- ›Known for his adherence to the "tudong" tradition, wandering in forests and practicing ascetic disciplines.
- ›Greatly influenced by Somdet Phra Vanarat Buddhasiri's teachings on meditation, particularly "Caturarakka Kammathana."
- ›Advocated for a strict meditation schedule, waking at 3 a.M. and practicing until 10 p.M.
- ›Considered a "Great Master of Meditation" by his disciples.
- ›Died in 1942 while meditating at the age of 82, after 62 years in monkhood.
Important Relationships
- Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta Mahathera
Ubon Ratchathani Province, Mukdahan Province, Nakhon Champasak Province
Somdet Phra Vanarat Buddhasiri
Bhikkhu Vows
About Ajahn Sao Kantasīlo
Ajahn Sao Kantasīlo (1859–1942) was a distinguished monk within the Thai Forest Tradition of Theravada Buddhism, recognized for his deep commitment to ascetic practices and his influential role as a meditation master. He was affiliated with the Dhammayuttika Nikaya, a reformist monastic order in Thailand.
Life and Practice
Born Sao on November 2, 1859, in Ubon Ratchathani Province, he was ordained as a novice at age 15 and later as a monk in the Maha Nikaya sect at age 20. In 1887, he underwent a re-ordination into the Dhammayut order. Ajahn Sao was known for embracing the "tudong" tradition, characterized by wandering in forests and adhering to stringent ascetic practices prescribed by the Buddha.
He was significantly influenced by the teachings of Somdet Phra Vanarat Buddhasiri, particularly the treatise "Caturarakka Kammathana" ("The Four Objects of Meditation That Give Protection"). As a teacher, Ajahn Sao instilled in his disciples the importance of diligence, systematic approach, and consistency, famously instructing them to wake at 3 a.m. and practice meditation until 10 p.m. His dedication to the Dhamma and Vinaya, preference for solitude, and willingness to travel on foot to find secluded places for practice earned him the title "The Great Master of Meditation" from the Kammathan family.
Key Students and Relationships
Among his most notable disciples was Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta Mahathera, with whom he often traveled and practiced in the forests. Ajahn Sao's teachings and practices laid a foundational stone for the development of the Kammathan lineage.
Death and Legacy
Ajahn Sao Kantasīlo passed away on February 3, 1942, at the age of 82, while in the act of meditation at Wat Amatyaram. His passing was described as occurring with "full mindfulness and plenitude." His remains were cremated in Ubon Ratchathani Province, and according to devotees, some bone fragments transformed into crystal-like relics, a testament to his spiritual attainment. His teachings and example continue to inspire practitioners in the Thai Forest Tradition.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Ajahn Sao Kantasilo born?
Ajahn Sao Kantasilo was born on November 2, 1859, in Ban Kha Khom, Nong Khon Subdistrict, Mueang Ubon Ratchathani District, Ubon Ratchathani Province, Thailand.
What Buddhist tradition did Ajahn Sao Kantasilo belong to?
Ajahn Sao Kantasilo was a monk in the Thai Forest Tradition of Theravada Buddhism and a member of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya.
Who were some notable students of Ajahn Sao Kantasilo?
One of his most well-known students was Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta Mahathera. He also taught many other monks who went on to establish monasteries and spread the Dhamma.
What was Ajahn Sao Kantasilo's approach to meditation practice?
He encouraged disciples to be diligent, systematic, and consistent, practicing sitting or walking meditation from 3 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily. He was devoted to ascetic practices and liked solitude.
How did Ajahn Sao Kantasilo die?
Ajahn Sao Kantasilo died on February 3, 1942, at the age of 82, while sitting in meditation and paying respect to a Buddha image in the ordination hall of Wat Amatyaram.
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