Phra Kru Wat Nang Tra

2.5" Large Amulet

The Three Great Kru Amulets of Southern Thailand

Ta Ruea – Nang Tra – Na Sonthi

The legendary set of southern Thai amulets known as the Tri Phakhee (“Three Greats”) consists of the sacred discoveries from Wat Ta Ruea, Wat Nang Tra, and Wat Na Sonthi in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Each carries not only deep historical origins but also the unique distinction of having been excavated and ritually consecrated in the modern era by some of the greatest masters of the south.

Rediscovery and Blessing in B.E. 2485 (1942)

In B.E. 2485, during temple restorations and local excavations, these three great kru were opened, revealing amulets of remarkable antiquity and artistry. Recognizing their historical and spiritual significance, a great assembly of southern masters was convened to bless the finds.

Among them were:

• Ajarn Chum Chaikhiri of Wat Khao Orr, the most renowned southern lay master of wicha, keeper of the Khao Orr magical lineage.

• Ajarn Nam of Wat Don Sala, famed for his mastery of protective spells and invulnerability wicha.

• Khun Phan Sribunyuen, the legendary southern police officer and disciple of both Wat Khao Orr and Wat Don Sala traditions, who preserved and propagated their magical knowledge.

• Alongside many other highly respected monks and teachers of the south who lent their blessings.

This grand consecration ensured that the ancient amulets were not only preserved as artifacts of history but also revitalized as living objects of power for the generations to come.

1. Phra Kru Wat Ta Ruea – “Ta Ruea”

Created in the 13th century under King Chandrabhanu Sri Dharmasokaraja together with Sinhalese monks, these clay amulets—most famously the Prak Pho Pim Yai (large Bodhi-canopy Buddha)—carry the early Ayutthaya style. They were originally produced for protection in times of war, carried by soldiers defending the kingdom.

2. Phra Kru Wat Nang Tra – “Nang Tra”

Built under the patronage of Queen Lueat Khao, consort of King Sri Dharmasokaraja, this temple’s amulets are in the Srivijaya style, dated to B.E. 1500–1600. The large Naga Prok type is most revered, with its distinctive feature of a small Buddha figure beneath the naga throne. These are prized for blessings of metta, charm, and invulnerability.

3. Phra Kru Wat Na Sonthi – “Na Sonthi”

Dating back to the early Srivijaya era (B.E. 1100–1300), the amulets of Wat Na Sonthi reflect pure Pala-Sena influence from India. The most sought-after types include the Bai Phuttha (leaf-shaped) and Yod Khun Phon (warrior general) forms. These are celebrated for their all-encompassing powers—authority, prestige, wealth, protection, and charisma.

Significance

The Tri Phakhee Amulets thus combine three layers of sacred heritage:

1. Ancient origin, tied to kings, queens, and the Srivijaya and early Ayutthaya civilizations.

2. Proven Buddhist art, regarded as some of the most exquisite southern finds.

3. Modern consecration, blessed in B.E. 2485 by the greatest masters of the south, including Ajarn Chum of Wat Khao Orr, Ajarn Nam of Wat Don Sala, Khun Phan Sribunyuen, and others.

It is this unique blend of antiquity, artistry, and renewed blessing that makes them among the most venerated and coveted amulets of Southern Thailand, carrying timeless spiritual protection and prestige.