Biography of Luang Pu Pard Thitipanyo Wat Ban Kruat

Biography of Luang Pu Pard Thitipanyo Wat Ban Kruat

Biography of Luang Pu Pard Thitipanyo (1909–2015)

Luang Pu Pard Thitipanyo, also known by his ecclesiastical title Phra Kru Wiboon Panyawat, was one of the most revered monks of Southern Isan, remembered as the “Saint of Southern Isan” and counted among the ten longest-living meditation masters of Thailand. He served as the abbot of Wat Ban Kruat in Buriram province, where his reputation for deep compassion, wisdom, and powerful spiritual attainments earned him the name “The Deity of Ban Kruat.”

Early Life and Ordination

  • Born on 3 May 1909 (B.E. 2452) in Ban Kruat district, Buriram, into a farming family.

  • Childhood was modest, helping his parents in the fields while completing his studies up to Primary 4.

  • At age 22, he ordained as a monk at Wat Ban Kruat, devoting himself fully to monastic discipline and scriptural study.

  • Alongside Buddhist teachings, he developed deep knowledge of traditional Thai medicine, using herbal remedies to treat villagers.

Training and Esoteric Studies

  • As a young monk, he sought further training in Vipassana meditation and ancient Khmer wicha (occult arts).

  • Traveled into Cambodia (Oddar Meanchey) for 3 years and later studied at Angkor Wat for over 8 years, mastering Khmer mystical sciences.

  • Returned to Thailand and resided at Wat Ban Kruat, initially as an ordinary monk. His reputation gradually spread due to his spiritual mastery, healing knowledge, and discipline.

Abbotship and Contributions

  • After the passing of Abbot Luang Pu Hring, villagers pressed him to accept the position of Abbot of Wat Ban Kruat, which he humbly did.

  • Over his lifetime, he established and developed temples including Wat Ta-Ee, Wat Ban Prasat, and Wat Ban Bueng Kao.

  • Oversaw construction of ordination halls, sermon halls, schools, and meditation centers, making Wat Ban Kruat a spiritual and community hub.

  • Founded a Vipassana training center and actively supported education and social welfare in the district.

Recognition by Other Masters

One of the most famous testaments to his sanctity came from Luang Phor Koon of Wat Ban Rai, who told Ban Kruat villagers:

“Why come to me? Your own abbot, Luang Pu Pard, is already highly sacred. You don’t need anything from me—your greatest treasure is already with you.”

Sacred Objects

Although reluctant to create amulets, Luang Pu Pard eventually agreed after repeated requests from disciples who sought objects for spiritual refuge. His sacred objects remain few in number but highly prized:

  • Takrut Maharaj Chakrapat (Great Emperor Takrut)

  • Phra Yod Khunphon Pathom Bodhiyan (sacred image with angelic protection)

  • First edition Phra Kring (Medicine Buddha)

  • Image amulets of Luang Pu Pard

  • Garuda amulets

He emphasized that his amulets should not be treated as mere objects of power but as reminders to uphold morality and chant regularly, which he taught would unlock their true blessings.

Passing

  • Luang Pu Pard passed away peacefully on 5 January 2015 at 11:58 AM, at the age of 105 years, 8 months, and 2 days, with 85 rains-retreats (vassa) in the monkhood.

  • His longevity, virtue, and spiritual authority cemented his status as one of Thailand’s most venerated elders.

Teachings

Luang Pu Pard consistently taught simple but profound truths:

  • “Suffering is for seeing, not for being.”

  • “Life is short—do good, avoid evil, never be careless.”

  • “Humans grow not through food, but through hardship.”

  • “Listen much, think carefully, then act.”

Legacy

Today, Luang Pu Pard is remembered as a monk of pure discipline and immense compassion. His life embodied selflessness, wisdom, and service to both the Sangha and laypeople. His amulets and teachings remain a source of spiritual refuge, while his legacy as a true “Saint of Southern Isan” continues to inspire Buddhists across Thailand.

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