Luang Phor Tong was the first abbot of Wat Rachyota, Bangkok, and although he governed the temple for almost one hundred years he is today relatively unknown.
In fact he is probably one the greatest monks that very few people have heard of. Not surprising as he chose to live a simple existance strictly following Lord Buddha’s Dharma and practicing meditation at his temple.
However during the time of King Rama 4 he was one of the most respected monks of his era . He is the disciple of Phra Acharn Seng of Wat Manichonkarn (Lopburi), Phra Acharn Seng was also the teacher of Somdet Phra Buddhachan Toh of Wat Rakang.
His background is not that well known. His place and year of birth for example have never been recorded. Fortunately it is well documented that he was ordained a monk at Wat Ngernbangprom, Talingchan District, Bangkok, by Jao kun Vinaikijjarithera, former abbot of Wat Ngernbangprom, who acted as Pra Upacha.
It is also known that he remained at the temple for several years studying sacred sciernces under the guidance of Jaokun Vinaikijjarithera. |