Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Kromma Phraya
Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Kromma Phraya was a prominent Buddhist scholar, historian, and a prince of the Chakri dynasty in Thailand. He served as the second abbot of Wat Bowonniwet Vihara and was later appointed Supreme Patriarch. His most notable contribution is a 45-year daily chronicle of rainfall and significant events, serving as a valuable historical record of Siamese society.
Key Facts
- ›Born on September 14, 1809, and died on September 28, 1892.
- ›Became a monk in 1830 and was given the dharma name Paññāaggo.
- ›Succeeded King Mongkut as the second abbot of Wat Bowonniwet Vihara in 1851.
- ›Held various princely ranks, including Krom Muen Bowonrangsisuriphan and Krom Phra Pavares Variyalongkorn.
- ›Appointed Supreme Patriarch by King Chulalongkorn in 1891.
- ›Maintained a 45-year daily chronicle of rainfall and significant events from 1855 to 1890.
Important Relationships
- King Mongkut
- King Chulalongkorn
Rainwater Ledger Chronicle
Wat Bowonniwet Vihara
Thai
Bhikkhu
About Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Kromma Phraya
Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Kromma Phraya, also known as Pavares Variyalongkorn, was a significant figure in 19th-century Thai Buddhism and royalty. Born in 1809 into the Chakri dynasty, he was a son of the Viceroy Maha Senanurak. He entered monastic life in 1830, receiving the dharma name Paññāaggo.
Life and Religious Service
In 1851, upon King Mongkut's accession to the throne, Pavares Variyalongkorn succeeded him as the second abbot of the prominent Wat Bowonniwet Vihara. During this period, he was elevated in princely rank, first as Krom Muen Bowonrangsisuriphan and later, in 1873, as Krom Phra Pavares Variyalongkorn. His influence within the Buddhist hierarchy culminated in 1891 when King Chulalongkorn appointed him Supreme Patriarch of Thailand. He held this esteemed position until his death in 1892.
Historical Contributions
Beyond his religious leadership, Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Kromma Phraya was also a dedicated historian and scholar. His most enduring legacy is the "rainwater ledger chronicle" (Jodmai Het Banchi Nam Fon), a meticulous daily record he kept for 45 years, from 1855 to 1890. This extensive compilation, preserved across thirteen folding-book manuscripts, offers invaluable insights into the weather patterns and societal events of Siam during the reigns of King Mongkut and King Chulalongkorn, making it a crucial resource for understanding the period.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Kromma Phraya?
Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Kromma Phraya was a Thai prince of the Chakri dynasty, a Buddhist scholar, and a historian. He held significant religious and royal positions, including abbot of Wat Bowonniwet Vihara and Supreme Patriarch of Thailand.
What was his role in the Buddhist clergy?
He became a monk in 1830 and later succeeded King Mongkut as the second abbot of Wat Bowonniwet Vihara in 1851. In 1891, he was appointed Supreme Patriarch, a position he held until his death.
What is his most significant historical contribution?
His most notable contribution is the 'rainwater ledger chronicle,' a daily record of rainfall and significant events he maintained for 45 years (1855-1890). This chronicle provides a valuable historical record of weather and society during the reigns of King Mongkut and King Chulalongkorn.
What were his notable princely titles?
He was given the princely name Krom Muen Bowonrangsisuriphan in 1851. Later, in 1873, he was elevated to Krom Phra Pavares Variyalongkorn.
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