code: A650

Bucha LP Thuad Wat Changhai BE 2554.

Dimensions: 9 cm (height) x 6.5 cm x 5.3 cm.

– Rian amulet was embedded at the bottom.

Wat Chang Hai Rat Buranaram, sometimes called only Wat Changhai, Wat Rat Burana, or Wat Ratburanaram.

Wat Chang Hai, a venerable temple with a history spanning over three centuries, is home to the revered monk Luang Pu Thuad, a former abbot of the temple renowned for his compassion and wisdom. A captivating legend surrounds Luang Pu Thuad, recounting his miraculous journey to Ayutthaya. During a tempestuous voyage, the crew of ship, deprived of food and water, faced dire thirst. In an act of divine intervention, Luang Pu Thuad transformed the seawater into fresh, potable water by placing his feet in the sea. This extraordinary feat solidified his reputation and became a cornerstone of his legend. After his passing in Malaysia, Luang Pu Thuad’s remains were returned to Wat Chang Hai.

HISTORY

Wat Ratburanaram or Wat Rat Burana, an ancient temple over 300 years old, is situated in Khuan Nori Sub-district of Khok Pho District, Pattani. Better known as “Wat Chang Hai,” its name is steeped in local legend. According to Pattani’s lore, Governor Phraya Kaem Dum of Saiburi city sought a new location to establish a city for his sister. Seeking divine guidance, he had his army and war elephant wander until they reached the forest where Wat Rat Burana now stands. The elephant circled the site three times, a sign considered auspicious by Phraya Kaem Dum. However, his sister disapproved, prompting the elephant to continue their journey. They eventually settled on a beach in Krue Se Subdistrict, where the elephant’s silence indicated her approval. The city of Pattani was subsequently built there. On their return, the group rested in the same forest where the elephant had circled three times. In gratitude, Phraya Kaem Dum ordered the clearing of the forest and the construction of a temple, naming it “Wat Chang Hai” or “Temple of the Elephant’s Gift.” Today, this historic temple serves as a place of worship for the revered “Great Monk of Pattani” and houses a shrine dedicated to Luang Pu Thuat.

Another architectural marvel within the temple complex is the Phrathat Chedi, a towering five-tiered structure reaching approximately 59 meters. The centerpiece of this impressive pagoda is the largest one in the region, crowned by a seven-tiered chedi crafted from 100-baht gold and adorned with rubies. Inside the Phrathat Chedi lies a hall housing the sacred relics of the Buddha, while a surrounding chapel hall provides a balcony for visitors to explore. The temple also boasts an ubosot, a stupa, a mondop, and a bell tower, each exemplifying exquisite architectural artistry.

Every year, on the first day of the waxing moon in the fifth lunar month, the temple hosts a solemn ceremony to pour water on Luang Pu Thuad’s ashes, a tradition honoring his legacy and enduring devotion.