In the early 70s, an aunt introduced Nang Kwak (Lady Wealth God) & a Thai Monk to my family. We called him Holland Road Sifu because his temple was in that area. Many years later learnt from my cousin that the temple was shifted to Bukit Batok.
Once with my aunt, her friends & the monk in my aunt's car, he gave me a copper amulet with Buddha or Monk image. Such amulet is called Rian in Thai.
As a teenager of that era, one worshiped Hero, more than anything else. Anything powerful attracted young people. Fighting or Covered Face Buddha was in trend. Almost every guy had one. Believing that it'll make you a hero. Pidta is this Buddha. Some with many hands covering other parts of the body.
I'd one small, metal with brass or bronze casing. 2 Hands Pidta. Can't recall how I lost it. In the late 70s, a good friend went Bangkok, requested him to get me a Pidta from temple. It's about the same one I'd but this one came with a red cloth with picture & words, & temple box.
Also about the same time, my family washer woman invited us to a temple in Joo Chiat. An amulet with a monk photo, on its back was 3 metal pieces, was given to us. Advised to put it on the main door top. Recently learnt that such is called Locket. The 3 metal pieces were Gold, Silver & Copper Takruts. My Thai friends who're expert in Thai Buddhism confirmed that the photo was Luang Por (Rev) Joon.
Some years later, my parents & I went oversea tour. Pidta came with me. After returning to S'pore then realised that I left the Pidta in the hotel room! No fate!
Around the 80s, after the death of my dad, my mum became a serious Mahayana Buddhist. Years passed, I also learnt Buddhism, & have special liking for the Medicine Buddha. Also known as the Master of Healing. Phra Kring in Thai Buddhism. (See the other page)
In l998, a new client who's a stockbroker, invited me to visit 4-Face Buddha, Erawan Shrine, Bangkok. Commonly known as the Sogo 4-Face Buddha. He shared that after he made the 1st wish there to make $ XXXXXX annually, it never failed! At there, after he offered joss-sticks, candles & flowers, he invited all the dancers to perform. He knelt throughout. I just walked here, walked there, partly coz of my Mahayana Buddhism background & didn't know of the 4-Face Buddha. A few years ago, he retired happily.
7 years ago, my family & ! went on a group tour to Phuket. Our first visit, we're brought to Wat (Temple) Chalong, a major temple. I bought a big amulet as souvenir, also made a wish about $. About 8 months, that amount of $ came!
Intended to return to Wat Chalong to thanksgiving & donate. In a dream, the temple told me no need to go there but donate to a particular Taoist temple in S'pore.
After the Phuket trip, we're fallen in love with Thai culture. In Dec, we went Bangkok free & easy. As a respect, our 1st stop was to visit the 4-Face Buddha. Made some wishes. Most of them came true. With such experience, I make it a point to visit this Shrine annually. Most wishes granted.
Last year after my mother passed away at the of 91, Pidta came to my mind. I researched on it & learnt much. It brought me to purchase, in Buddhism manner, say Rent & not buy. Eventually I collected many different form of Pidta. Enjoying it & still collecting.
Such research led me to a better understanding of Thai Buddhism. Got to know great Thai monks such as Luang Por Tuad, Somdej Toh, LP Eiam, Pae, Koon, Tim, Toh, Parn, Perm, Liew & many others. Not forgetting Kruba Boonchum, the one who prayed for the 13 missing boys in Chiang Rai last year. In Northern Thailand, they address monk as Kruba & not Luang Por.
A friend of similar interest introduced me to Live Bidding Station. An online platform to bid or rent amulets particularly historical ones. Most stations are based in Thailand. Some from Malaysia & S'pore. Can pre-order too. Of course beware of fake! Well, it's funny to see Chinese Pixiu blessed by Thai monks.
Some good stations really provide much knowledge. Quite surprise with some stations that the owners while on live could use many foul language & yet never short of supporters!
From the research & knowledge from various Amulet Stations, learnt many type of items eg Somdej, Khun Paen, Phra Kring, Sivali, Sangkachai, Pidta, Wealth Turtle, Black Magic, Dark Side etc. Common to have amulets created to remember great Kings, eg Rama 5 & Rama 9. Also often amulet for fund-raising to build temple, hospital, school etc.
The enjoyment of owning an amulet isn't just hoping that it'll bring you luck or protect you. Knowing who made & blessed it, what year, what material, what experience & feature are extreme pleasure. Matching with the right casing is a beauty. Usually casing comes in plastic, stainless steel, gold micron, silver & solid gold. A good craftsman will fit the amulet & casing beautifully.
Investment is another factor. Over the years, price or value of amulets especially by famous monks only increase. Amulet costing 5 figure is common. Likely the reason for the growth of many amulet shops, online & bidding stations.
Several reputable amulet organisations in Thailand could verify your amulets & issue certificates. They also organise Amulet Competitions. Thus an amulet with cert & competition ranking will command a much higher price.
Such influence is so strong that even international big time celebrities use Thai Amulets. Some even Tattooed.
Many dreams about Thai Monks & Amulets. Some came to visit me. Some advised me. Some told me to get what amulet. Interestingly, Somdej Toh told me to visit Wat Rakang.
Enjoying this Theravada (Small Wheel) Thai Buddhism Culture.
Lunar 5th month 15th day
17/6/2019
UPDATE:
28/6/19: Dream: LP TUAD, Thai Greatest Monk, is reborn into a rich Asian or Middle-East family. Now about 11 to 14 of age. Together with an elder sister, both very well-dressed & fair looking, seemed lost in a place surrounded by modern buildings & sea. Wat Chang Hai & many other temples were thinking way to help them.
9/7/19: Last night arrived from Bkk. 1st 2 days ans to Somdej Toh's dream to visit Wat Rakang (Temple of Bell).
This monk was the one according to famous Thai legend/movie Ghost Wife, to have tamed & kept the Ghost Wife. He also created the Buddha image, popularly called Somdej, King of Amulets.
On the 1st day, light rain, visited the Wat, & met a Volunteer. She showed me to the proper Temple Amulet Stall manned by a monk & some staff. Bought what i wanted, a 25 years old (BE 2537) small Statue of Somdej Toh, with temple box (they believe that add value).
On the 2nd day evening, went & met the Volunteer again. She spoke with the stall staff, & I got a 9-step Somdej amulet, with 3 gold takruts at the base, at good price. On-the-spot the staff did Gold Micron casing. It's 77 years old (BE 2485) by Lp Nak, disciple of Somdej Toh. Lp Nak was a great monk too. The Chief Abbot led Prayer session.
On the 2nd day at Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) bought a 17 years old (BE 2545) Pidta. Stall Keeper told me it's the last piece.
Thanks to Thai pal, Penny, who took leave to accompany me to Wat Arun. Also acted as Tour Guide.
3rd & 4th day, fine weather, went over to Pratunam. The usual visit to 4-Face Buddha, Erawan Shrine. Followed by eating, shopping etc.
In Wat Rakang area saw what's old town. Over at Wat Arun admired great architecture. Enjoyed.
13/7/19: Sometimes experts also can't differentiate between a fake & real amulet for the workmanship is just too good! Remake piece by the authority isn't copied. Some don't mind repaired or pass down item. If you're doubtful with the amulet or the shop whether online or property, Pass. Same as used car or watch.
Usually amulets by famous monks or temples can be checked on official publication or web sites. By paying a fee, there're organisations in Thailand to authentic your items. A certificate will then be issued. They organise competition too. It's big event.
Admire many Thai people who can be layman or collector, they believe It's Your Love of that particular Amulet that counts, who cares Fake or Real! Of course one who purposely makes or sells Fake will face Karma.
1/8/19:
Today, lunar 7th mth 1st day, this amulet of 41 years arrived. Almost same posture as the big statue at Wat Rakang's pier. In the 1st dream, Somdej Toh taught me to chant a kartha. 2nd dream, he asked me to visit Wat Rakang. Shortly after the visit, he told me to go to listen to the chanting at the temple. Now planning this trip.
14/8/19: Lunar 7th mth 14th day. Ghost Month. An Unique Characteristic of Thai Buddhism is Amulet. In the old days, Amulet was usually created by the Monks to raise fund for the Temple. In addition to using Buddha & popular Busa image, eg Guan Yin, Laughing Buddha, Sivali, Pidta etc; Self-Image of Monks were used. Of course animals images that believed to bring special power or good luck were created too, eg Turtle, Tiger, Elephant etc. Image of various Kings are popular.
Well, the materials used are interesting as well. Metal, Soil, Flowers are common. Some add Gem, Monk's Hair, Robe etc. Will not talk about the Dark or Yin amulet whereby bone, ash or spirit of the dead were used. Good monks don't create such without a good reason.
Extensive Chanting were carried out to bless or enshrine the Amulets. Common to pick special day.
Mahayana or Big Wheel Buddhism do make Amulets but usually confined to the image of Buddha & popular Busa. Haven't come across image of High Monks.
20/8/19: A reputable lady Amulet dealer mentioned that Amulet will only help your luck by 10 to 30%. The remaining will depend on your own luck. Let me add, leave 10% to God, due to your Karma. From a Feng Shui Man's experience of no less than 3 decades, the remaining is Geomancy Magic.
A reputable male dealer disclosed that if you see no improvement after wearing a particular Amulet for 6 months, change it. It meant that piece or that Creator doesn't suit you.
Well, the general saying is First you must have Trust in what you wear. Not too good to have the Try Try attitude. It's common for one to have a Special Feeling with certain Amulets.
22/8/19: Experts highlighted that when Monk creates/bless the Amulet will usually put in all Wishes, eg Wealth, Luck, Protection etc. You can call it all round. But it's also common for the Monk to strengthen a particular Wish, eg Good Relationship. So be sure you know what you're looking for. Thus it's common for one to carry several different Amulets.
8/9/19:
Guan Yin rides Dragon by Kruba Boon Chum
Laughing Buddha by Lp Koon
The 3 Bodhisattvas commonly known in Chinese Buddhism that are also popular in Thai Buddhism circle are the Goddess of Mercy (Guan Yin), Laughing Buddha (Phra Sangkazai in Thai), & Guan Gong, the God of War (sorry no pic). Many Thai Monks make Amulets of them. Can also be found in many Thai Temples.
10/9:
Well-loved Turtle is popularized by Thai Monks & Temples to be Wealth Turtle. As the name goes, Wealth Fetching is ensured with their creations & blessings. I found out more. Details in the Wealth Turtle page.
10/11: Recalled some years ago I bought a Pidta from an old man carrying 1 or 2 small display case by the roadside. It costed little, I took it as charity to the elderly. For the next few hours, had a strong feeling that the Pidta didn't wish to travel out of BKK! Noticed in a massage shop, the lady boss had an altar of various Buddhas. She's so glad that I presented her the Pidta. I felt very comfortable too. There's such a thing that Buddha doesn't want to leave!
13/11:
First came to know Lp Moon through some HK collectors. Further learnt of him was by a specialized dealer of Lp Moon's items. you can called this Thai man his disciple. He always share stories & miracles of the late Lp Moon. Also highlighted that Lp Moon amulets bring fast result but advised that if no result within half a year, that's no faith. Should switch to another amulet or Master.
His golden point of Lp Moon's advise: " If you believe in me, even a printout image of me from the internet will have the power. I'll come bless you. " This dealer often advises don't need to pay sky high price for Lp Moon made or blessed amulets. Authorized remake pieces or new ones by his disciples or temples is good enough.
Recently had the chance to own this 2019 Lp Moon self-image on Wealth Turtle with Money Bag on the back. Now, $ Bag of any Masters is most sought after. Here I see 3 Good Things, Lp Moon, Wealth Turtle, Money Bag. It's my first Lp Moon's amulet.
To know more about WEALTH TURTLE, do visit the page on the subject.
19/11:
This's the 2nd time I won Lucky Draw of Lp Tuad amulet! Interestingly this piece is made of Brick design.
It's the 1st time I owned an amulet with Cert. A Dreamed piece of 19 Gold Leaves Somdej, co-chanted by Somdej Toh, his teacher & other monks of Wat Rakang. It's an invitation by a 400 years old Temple. This piece is about 170 years old.
26/11:
Today is lunar 11th mth 1st day. Glad to receive 2 rare amulets on a Holy day. 1) Money Bag with 2 hooks by no. 1 Tiger monk, Lp Pern, 22 years old. 2) Smoking monk Lp Koon with Hand Yants, 23 years. Amulet with Hand Yant especially by the Master himself is considered Very Special, maybe more powerful, & command a higher price.
27/11:
Using Black Obsidian beads with 6-word mantra, & with the help of a professional Chinese bead specialist, fixed Lp Pern $ Bag amulet into a bracelet. Inspired by a Thai amulet dealer.
Lp Liew, no. 1 Wealth Turtle creator Also known as King of Wealth Turtle. His 1st batch creation commands a minimum 4-figure sum. Much sought after..
31.12:
Tomorrow is Lp Pae's Birthday, also New Year Day. Am pleased with my collection of his amulets especially the Rainbow series.
7/1/20:
A dealer hosted a Lucky Draw on Xmas Day. Lucky me won a 20 years old, LP Moon Khun Paen amulet. This's my 3rd Lp Moon items. A happy Xmas cum Birthday present!
5 pieces of Pidta by Lp Koon. Just some of my Lp Koon's collections.
6/8/20
Heard of Peacock King some years ago. Recently saw a documentary on him. Interesting. Kruba Aliyachart was the reborn of famous Northern Thailand monk, Kruba Sriwicha.
He found a dream land of good Feng Shui or Auspiciousness to build his temple. The owner of the land sold it to him at a donation price. In a short span of time, Wat Sang Kaew Phothiyan was built.
It attracts many devotees even foreigners to Chiang Rai.
Kruba was called Peacock King because there are many such bird around. Also it's used as decor. He's famous for Wish Come True especially Wealth.
Hope to visit Him & the Temple one day.
A young boy followed Lp Tuad, the most respected Thai Monk, to many temples across Thailand, a few hundred years ago. They arrived at Wat Chedi. Shortly Lp Tuad got to move to other places. He told the young boy, probably of age 10 or 11, to stay put at Wat Chedi, & to look after it.
Unfortunately, this boy passed off. Interestingly till today, He or rather His Spirit still look after the temple. Bad guys were frightened off by Him. Good or kind people usually have their wishes granted.
Many miracles happened. His Statue & that of Lp Tuad were built in Wat Chedi. Many went & still many go there to seek Blessings. They usually come with what any young kids like, toys, sweets, soft drinks etc, & offer to Him. At Wat Chedi & other temples that have this Young Boy's image were have many toys & sweets. 2 unusual things are found there too, Chicken or Rooster & Fire Crackers. Somehow He particularly like Rooster & Fire Crackers.
Officially He's known as Aikai, this Thai word means Novice Monk or Young Boy. He's famous for Wish Granting including Wealth-Fetching & Protection.
Many take Aikai as Gumanthong. This I can't agree to. For Aikai wasn't made by any Monk or Master to be Gumanthong. His was a natural death & He, living & dead, merely Very Loyal & Filial Piety to the Master.
His Loyalty, Faithfulness & Filial Piety impressed me very much & attracted me to a deeper study & understanding of Him & Lp Tuad. Of course, about 2 years, when I first touched on Thai Buddhism, Lp Tuad was a mentor.
About 3 weeks ago, I saw an amulet creation by Wat Samamueang, a Hulu (To the Thai, Hulu is for Wealth) with Lp Tuad on the front, & Aikai on the back. Gladness that this temple let the Master & His Boy reunite. I bought it quite instantly & told Thai side to make casing of colour x. That night, Lp Tuad & Aikai came in my dream & told me they preferred Green colour casing. Next day, first thing in the morning told Thai side of the change of casing colour & the dream. Wow! was the reply. In the 2 years, I dreamt of Lp Tuad many times. A few days later, in an Amulet Game, I won an Aikai amulet. In the following week, I bought 3 Aikai on Wealth Turtles. That night, dreamt that they're happy going to S'pore. Recently in another Game, I won an Aikai on Wealth Turtle. Not here yet.
Earlier this week, Thai side showed me a 9 inches statue of solid brass. Love at first sight. Although the price wasn't within my budget, I tighten my belt, & bought it. On the way home with the Beauty, an old client contacted me that she needed my service to look at some condos. The next day, a long delayed project due to CB, was given the green light to go ahead. Also won small ibet 4D. Miracle!
Many Gemstones Below
It's common to name your amulets especially Aikai. Mine is called Liang Chai. In Cantonese it's Handsome Boy.
Look at the Smile & Fine Workmanship
12/11/20
Aikai gave me the confident to bring in this Special Batch of Wealth Turtle. In addition to Wealth-Fetching, this will grant you your Wishes. Also for Filial Piety, Faithfulness & Loyalty. On arrival, 2nd row 1st & 2nd piece were sold instantly.
Last Wed & Sat won small 4D prize. Last Monday won 3 numbers for Toto. Lol.
Please also read Thai Amulets & Power Tools, & Wealth Turtle Page.
17/11/20
Aikai in Gold Micron Casing with man-made Diamonds. For Charity.
Tiger Skin. Back with Hand Yant. Lp Perm.
10/12/20
It's was created in Ayutthaya era, AD1563, by Queen Wisutkasat.
Blessed by Lp Guay, Lp Toh, Lp Pae & 17 Top Monks.
Triangular Shape is its Signature Feature.
Thai Flag Design Casing very impressive.
Jade Somdej with Gold Foil. Wat Rakang.
Ring of the present famous Monk, Lp Phat
Saturday Buddha, Phra Naprok. Wisdom & Protection.
