The Controversial Amulets of Ajaan Chah

The Controversial Amulets of Ajaan Chah

The thing about the Thai Forest Tradition, as it is known to us, is that it often plays down certain cultural elements to fit in with Western ideals of the path to arahantship. So many a times, we don't actually see the full picture of what our favourite monk was like. Many forest monks chewed betel nut, smoked, and had supernatural powers, e.g. Ajaan Lee was known to have relics manifesting and dropping around him, Luang Pu Chob was known to be visited by Devas, and our favourite Ajaan Chah, actually made or blessed quite a lot of amulets. 

Wat Nong Pah Pong may have issued a statement stating that the temple has never produced any amulets, but this was due to a misunderstanding during Luang Pu Chah's funeral where there were rumours of a LP Chah rian (coin) being released, so it did not want devotees to be scammed. That is why many people believe that the temple and Ajaan Chah had not produced any amulets. However, villagers who lived around the temple would tell a different story. 

It is said that Luang Pu Chah made or blessed most of his amulets from 1967-1977. As there is no official temple book released on the versions of LP Chah's amulets, it is difficult to compile an exact list of the amulets blessed or made by Ajaan Chah. LP Chah's first batch of Rian with his image is said to be produced in 1975. 

It is quite beautifully made and many fans of Ajaan Chah like to collect this. 

Other amulets are made from Phuttakun (Buddha Guna) or flower powder. There is even one commemorative amulet to memoralise Ajaan Chah's return from England, as well as Lockets and Loop Oms.

Just sharing for your information and reading pleasure. Not taking any sides in this debate. 

Cr: Various Sources, Dharma Gateway, Owners of the Amulets

13th November, 2022