05 Mar Bio – Lp Yid Wat Nong Jok

Luang Por Yid, born Yid Sri Dok Buap on June 10, 1933 (or 1924, as some sources suggest), was a highly revered Thai Buddhist monk known for his deep knowledge of occult sciences, tattooing (Sak Yant), and the creation of sacred amulets.

He was the former abbot of Wat Nong Chok in Kui Buri District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, and his life was marked by a profound dedication to spiritual practice, community service, and the preservation of traditional Thai Buddhist practices.

Early Life and Ordination

Luang Por Yid was born into the See Dok Buap family in Ban Huaruat, Tambon Na Phan Sam, Amphoe Mueang, Phetchaburi Province. He was the fourth of seven siblings, born to Mr. Kaew and Mrs. Phroi.

From a young age, he showed a strong inclination toward temple life, often accompanying his uncle, Phra Ajahn Wan of Wat Na Phrom, to the temple after morning alms-giving. Recognizing his spiritual potential, his parents allowed him to be ordained as a novice monk at the age of 6.

At 9 years old, he was formally ordained as a novice at Wat Na Phrom, where he studied sacred texts, meditation, and traditional Thai occult practices under the guidance of his uncle, Phra Athikarn Wan, and Khru Lee Maen Mek.

His early interest in tattooing, herbal medicine, and Dhamma-Vinaya (Buddhist teachings and monastic discipline) set the foundation for his later spiritual and mystical pursuits.

Pilgrimage and Early Adulthood

As a young novice, Luang Por Yid embarked on a four-year pilgrimage with his preceptor, deepening his understanding of meditation and spiritual practices.

At 14, he temporarily disrobed to help his family with farming, during which time his reputation as a skilled tattoo artist began to grow. By the age of 17-19, he had gained local fame for his Sak Yant tattoos, which were believed to possess protective and magical properties.

However, his tattooing also attracted some negative attention, as some recipients became involved in hooliganism, prompting local authorities to ask him to be more selective in his practice.

At 20, he was ordained as a full monk at Wat Na Phrom, with Luang Por In of Wat Yang as his preceptor and Phra Athikarn Wan as his assistant.

He received the monastic name Chanthasuwanno and continued his studies in magic and meditation under Luang Por Suk of Wat Ton Luang. He spent many years in the forest, practicing meditation and deepening his spiritual insights.

Family Responsibilities and Return to Monastic Life

After his father fell ill, Luang Por Yid disrobed again to care for his aging mother. During this time, he married and started a family. Despite his lay life, his reputation as a tattoo artist and healer continued to grow, and many sought his blessings and tattoos.

However, his spiritual calling remained strong, and in 1975, at the age of 51, he was ordained once more at Wat Ko Lak, with Luang Por Phiem as his preceptor. He resumed his monastic name, Chanthasuwanno, and dedicated himself fully to the monastic path.

Founding Wat Nong Chok

After his reordination, Luang Por Yid traveled to Wat Tung Noi in Kui Buri District, where he met two devout laywomen who donated 21 rai and 2 ngan of land for the construction of a temple.

The land, initially covered in bamboo and thorn forests, was gradually cleared and developed by Luang Por Yid and his disciples. With the help of his followers, who admired his tattooing and herbal medicine, the temple grew from a simple hut into the thriving Wat Nong Chok.

The temple became a center for spiritual practice, community service, and the creation of sacred amulets.

Legacy of Amulets and Sak Yant

Luang Por Yid is perhaps best known for his creation of sacred amulets and palakid (phallic amulets), which are highly sought after for their believed protective and auspicious powers.

His amulets, often imbued with mystical energy, are considered both powerful and affordable, making them accessible to many devotees. His palakid amulets, in particular, are legendary, with stories of their magical properties, such as the ability to “fly around the temple,” being widely recounted.

Passing and Enduring Influence

Luang Por Yid passed away on July 31, 1995, at the age of 71, after 30 years of monkhood. His legacy lives on through Wat Nong Chok, his amulets, and the countless lives he touched through his spiritual guidance, healing, and tattooing.

His teachings and creations continue to inspire devotion and reverence among his followers, cementing his place as one of Thailand’s most respected and beloved monks.

Key Contributions:
Sak Yant Tattoos: Renowned for his intricate and powerful tattoos.

Sacred Amulets: Created highly revered amulets, including palakid.

Wat Nong Chok: Founded and developed the temple into a spiritual hub.

Herbal Medicine: Known for his knowledge of traditional healing practices.

Luang Por Yid’s life exemplifies the integration of spiritual practice, community service, and the preservation of Thai Buddhist traditions, making him a revered figure in Thai Buddhism.