MS6

Luang Phor Prom – Wat Ban Suan (Silver Base)

Wat Ban Suan, Phatthalung — Sacred Khao Or Lineage

Summary

This compact bronze-toned image represents Phra Kring, the sacred Medicine Buddha traditionally associated with protection, healing, mindfulness and freedom from misfortune.

The example shown is attributed to Por Than Prom Khantiko of Wat Ban Suan, a respected master from Phatthalung’s renowned Khao Or spiritual lineage. Its distinctive form combines the Medicine Buddha with Southern Thai sacred-art traditions: a medicine vessel held before the body, an earth-touching gesture, a beaded robe and a lotus throne.

Historical Background

Wat Ban Suan stands in Khuan Khanun district, Phatthalung, within the spiritual landscape associated with the ancient Khao Or school.

Por Than Prom was a principal disciple of Luang Por Khong Sirimanto, a former abbot of Wat Ban Suan. Through his teacher, he inherited ritual knowledge descending from the masters of Wat Don Sala and Wat Khao Or.

Alongside his religious and community work, Por Than Prom continued the traditional creation and consecration of sacred objects according to the customs of the Khao Or lineage. He was also regularly invited to participate in consecration ceremonies throughout Thailand.

Origins of the Materials

The sacred body was cast from a specially prepared mixture of consecrated alloys. Into the molten metal were combined fragments of old alloy amulets, ancient takruts, inscribed sacred-metal sheets and other blessed objects preserved from earlier ceremonies.

Gold, silver, copper and nawa loha—the traditional nine-metal sacred alloy—were added to enrich the mixture. By melting these older objects into the new casting, their accumulated ritual associations and connection to previous masters were symbolically carried forward into each Phra Kring.

The underside was closed with a fitted silver base plate, distinguishing it from the principal alloy of the body. Within the hollow image, a small metal pellet produces the characteristic ringing sound from which Phra Kring takes its name.

Rather than being valued only for its precious-metal content, this composite alloy is revered as a vessel uniting sacred substances, earlier amulets and the spiritual inheritance of the lineage.

Ritual

In the Khao Or tradition, consecration is understood as the spiritual awakening of the sacred image through disciplined meditation, Buddhist chanting and the transmission of the lineage masters’ blessings.

A Phra Kring ceremony traditionally includes the recitation of Buddhist protective texts and invocations connected with the Medicine Buddha. The pellet sealed inside the image—when present—produces its characteristic ringing sound and serves as a reminder to awaken the mind whenever it is heard.

Por Than Prom is documented as having preserved the sacred-object traditions inherited from Luang Por Khong. However, the exact date, participating monks and ritual sequence for this particular Phra Kring remain to be verified.

Blessings and Effects

Collectors and devotees traditionally seek Phra Kring for:

• Protection from danger and harmful influences

• Support during periods of illness or recovery

• Mental composure and clarity

• Safe travel and freedom from unexpected obstacles

• Compassion, goodwill and harmonious relationships

• A reminder to act with mindfulness and restraint

These qualities belong to Buddhist devotional tradition. The amulet should be regarded as spiritual support and not as a substitute for medical treatment, careful judgment or responsible conduct.

Experiences Shared by Wearers

Among devotees, Phra Kring amulets are often described as having a quiet and reassuring presence. Some wearers say that carrying one helps them remain calmer when attending medical appointments, travelling alone or facing uncertain situations.

Others recount becoming more mindful after hearing the faint ringing within the image, interpreting the sound as a reminder to pause, recollect the Buddha and avoid acting from fear or anger.

Followers of Por Than Prom also associate his sacred objects with the steadfast protective character of the Khao Or tradition. Accounts commonly concern increased confidence, narrowly avoided difficulties and a feeling of composure during challenging periods.

These are personal testimonies and matters of faith. They should not be interpreted as independently verified guarantees of supernatural results.

Modern Application

The Phra Kring is especially suitable for people working in healthcare, caregiving, counselling or other professions involving responsibility for the welfare of others.

It may also be worn by frequent travellers, people passing through demanding periods or those seeking a daily reminder of mindfulness and physical well-being.

Before placing it around the neck, the wearer may briefly recollect the virtues of the Buddha and establish a simple intention:

May I remain mindful, compassionate and free from heedlessness.
May all beings be protected from suffering and fear.

Respectful conduct, generosity and care for one’s parents and teachers are traditionally regarded as the proper foundations for wearing a sacred object.

Physical Details

A substantial 2-inch-tall Phra Kring cast from a dark, copper-toned sacred alloy. The Buddha holds a medicine vessel and wears a distinctive beaded sash while seated upon a double-lotus pedestal. A silver plate seals the base, enclosing the internal pellet that produces the characteristic ringing sound.

Recommended Pairing

For a balanced Southern Thai pairing, this Phra Kring may be worn with:

Luang Pu Thuad — traditionally chosen for protection during travel, safety and the remembrance of an enlightened teacher.

Phra Pidta — traditionally associated with restraint, protection from unwanted influences, harmonious dealings and the guarding of one’s resources.

A portrait medal of Por Than Prom — the most direct pairing for devotees wishing to honour both the Buddha image and the master responsible for its consecration lineage.

A simple arrangement is recommended: place the Buddha image in the central or highest position, with the teacher’s amulet or protective image slightly below it. The spiritual meaning of the pairing is considered more important than the number of amulets worn.