Somdet Phra Ariyavangsagatayana Somdet Phra Sangharaja

Somdet Phra Ariyawongsakhatayan Somdet Phra Sangharaja (1812–1899)

Somdet Phra Ariyawongsakhatayan Somdet Phra Sangharaja, also known as Ariyavangsagatayana II and by his birth name Sa, was the 9th Supreme Patriarch of Thailand during the Rattanakosin era. He is widely celebrated for his exceptional early academic achievements, becoming the first novice in the kingdom's history to pass all nine grades of the Parian Dhamma examination, earning him the title "Genius Novice of Rattanakosin."

Life and Historical Context

Born in Nonthaburi Province in 1812, Sa Pussadevo's lineage traced back to Ratchaburi Province. His father, Chan, was known for his knowledge of Buddhist texts and was nicknamed "Chan Milindamalai." Sa Pussadevo began his religious education as a novice, studying Pali and eventually mastering the language under the tutelage of King Mongkut (then a monk). He achieved his remarkable feat of passing all nine Parian Dhamma grades at the young age of 18, leading King Rama III to appoint him as the first "Naga Luang" (royal novice).

He first ordained in 1833, receiving the monastic name Pussadevo, and later moved to Wat Bowonniwet Vihara. After a period of disrobing, he was invited by King Mongkut to reordain in 1851. He reportedly re-sat the Parian Dhamma exams, again passing all nine grades, which led to the nickname "18-Grade Patriarch." His ecclesiastical career progressed through various significant ranks, including abbot of Wat Ratchaburana Sata Mahasima Ram, before he was elevated to Supreme Patriarch in 1893.

Major Contributions and Works

As Supreme Patriarch from 1893 to 1899, Somdet Phra Ariyawongsakhatayan Somdet Phra Sangharaja oversaw significant Buddhist activities. He composed numerous Buddhist sermons and treatises, including concise versions of Pathamasambodhi and extensive commentaries for preaching, many of which remain in use by monks and novices. A monumental achievement during his tenure was his co-leadership in the editing and printing of the first Thai script Tipitaka, a project that replaced older palm-leaf manuscripts and resulted in the R.S. 112 Edition.

Beyond his religious and literary contributions, he also displayed artistic and design talents. He composed the verse inscription on the gable of the Ministry of Defence and is credited with designing the national coat of arms under King Rama V. His passing in 1899 marked the end of his influential leadership, and King Chulalongkorn did not appoint a successor for the remainder of his reign.