Monday, August 12, 2024

Somdej Toh T-Shirt with Chinbanchorn Kata

 Experience the deep spiritual connection and rich history embodied in our High Quality Cotton T-Shirt, featuring a silk screen print of the esteemed Thai Master Monk, Somdej Pra Puttajarn (Dto) Prohmrangsri, of Wat Rakang Kositaram. This sacred image is accompanied by the Kata Chinabanchorn Prayer, a powerful and protective incantation, inscribed on the back of the T-shirt.

Somdej Pra Puttajarn (Dto) Prohmrangsri, also known as Somdej Dto, Hlwong Por Dto, or Maha Dto, is one of Thailand's most revered monks. He was born on the 17th of April in 2331 BE (1778 CE) during the reign of King Rama I, in Ban Tambon Gai Jon, Ta Ruea, Pra Nakorn Sri Ayuttaya. His legacy extends beyond the spiritual realm, leaving an indelible mark on Thai Buddhism and culture. He is renowned for creating the illustrious Pra Somdej amulets, which are highly sought after for their spiritual significance.

Somdej Toh Wat Rakhang T-Shirt


The rear face of the T-shirt bears the sacred Prayer of Kata Chinabanchorn, a mantra that holds a special place in the hearts of Thai Buddhists. This powerful incantation is renowned for its protective qualities and is chanted widely across Thailand.

Kata Chinabanchorn on rear face of T-shirt


The legend of the Kata Chinabanchorn is as captivating as it is spiritually meaningful. It begins with Somdej Dto's journey to Gampaeng Paetch to visit relatives. During this visit, he stopped by an ancient temple named Wat Sadet, located near the Bping River. Here, a Chedi (stupa) containing Buddha relics was discovered. Inside this Chedi, an ancient Kampir (grimoire) written in Singhala was found. This grimoire was given to Somdej Dto, and within it, he discovered the Kata Chinabanchorn Prayer.

Jao Prakhun Somdej Prayan Sangworn Jaroen Suwattano, a notable figure in the history of the Kata Chinabanchorn, played a pivotal role in preserving and publishing new copies of this sacred mantra. In 2503 BE (1961 CE), he was presented with a book of prayers from Sri Lanka titled 'The Mirror of Dhamma.' This book, written in Singhala and Roman characters with English translations, indicated the Kata Chinabanchorn's widespread recognition across different cultures and languages.

The Kata Chinabanchorn is not unique to Thailand. In 2528 BE, Jao Prakhun Somdej Prayan Sangworn met with Pra Tammananta Thaera, a Burmese monk from Wat Ta Ma-O in Lampang. The Burmese monk revealed that the Kata Chinabanchorn was also chanted in Burma, primarily for protection against dangers and evil. This highlights the Kata's significance and its role as a common prayer in various Buddhist traditions.

Somdej Pra Buddhacharn Toh

Somdej Dto, originally named Prohmrangsri, was ordained early in life and was known for his deep commitment to the Buddha-Dhamma and his profound understanding and practice of Vipassana mindfulness. His spiritual prowess and dedication to the Buddhist teachings earned him a significant following. However, it was his creation of the Pra Somdej amulets that cemented his legacy in Thai history.

Close Up of the image of Somdej Toh on the front of the high quality silk screen T-Shirt


The Pra Somdej amulets of Somdej Dto, particularly those from Wat Rakang Kositaram, Wat Bang Khun Prohm, and Wat Gaes Chaiyo, are considered the "King of Thai amulets." These sacred objects are revered for their spiritual potency and historical and monetary value, with some fetching prices as high as fifty million baht. The amulets are renowned for their various "Pim" (pressings/editions), including the popular "Pim Pra Pratan," "Pim Ges Bua Dtum," "Pim Chedi," "Pim Thaan Saem," and "Pim Brok Po."



The legend of Somdej Dto is filled with tales of miraculous events and profound wisdom. One of the most enduring stories is about the making of the Pra Somdej amulets. It is said that Somdej Dto meticulously crafted these amulets using a secret formula that included sacred powders, herbs, and relics. The process was imbued with deep spiritual rituals and blessings, making each amulet a powerful conduit of protection.



By donning this Somdej Toh T-shirt, you carry a piece of Thai spiritual history with you, a tangible connection to the revered Master Monk and the sacred prayer that has protected and inspired generations of Thai Buddhists.

Somdej Toh and his famous Pra Somdej amulet


Somdej Pra Puttajarn (Dto) Prohmrangsri, after discovering the ancient Singhala grimoire at Wat Sadet in Gampaeng Paetch, brought the text back to his Guti (monastic residence) at Wat Rakang. That fateful night, around 3 a.m., he was visited by a remarkable vision. A tall young man, dressed in white with sharp eyes, appeared at the foot of his bed (doc_1). Aware that this was no ordinary human encounter, Somdej Dto embarked on Samadhi meditation to comprehend the significance of this divine visitation.



The Kata Chinabanchorn, one of Somdej Dto's most revered works, is steeped in rich legends and surrounded by an aura of sacred power. It is considered one of the top five prayers chanted by Thai Buddhists and is deeply revered for its protective qualities. The foundation of the Kata Chinabanchorn refers to the group of 28 Buddhas and the names of the fifteen Arahant Savaka (disciples) of Lord Buddha Sakyamuni. The Kata is composed as a seven-verse set, known as the 'Jed Dtamnan,' and is aimed at providing spiritual protection to those who chant it with faithful diligence.

The origins of the Kata Chinabanchorn are a subject of debate among scholars and practitioners. While it is widely believed that Somdej Dto composed this Kata, there are claims that another Pra Thaera (elder monk) from Chiang Mai might have originally created it. Despite these uncertainties, the Kata's widespread use and reverence remain unquestioned.



Over the years, the Kata Chinabanchorn has been printed in numerous editions and versions, and its authenticity has been the focus of scholarly examination. The plethora of legends surrounding the Kata, along with its deep spiritual significance, has ensured its enduring popularity among Thai Buddhists, who continue to chant it with unwavering faith and devotion.

Jao Prakhun Somdej Prayan Sangworn Jaroen Suwattano, a notable figure in the history of the Kata Chinabanchorn, played a pivotal role in preserving and publishing new copies of this sacred mantra. In 2503 BE (1961 CE), he was presented with a book of prayers from Sri Lanka titled 'The Mirror of Dhamma.' This book, written in Singhala and Roman characters with English translations, indicated the Kata Chinabanchorn's widespread recognition across different cultures and languages.

The Kata Chinabanchorn is not unique to Thailand. In 2528 BE, Jao Prakhun Somdej Prayan Sangworn met with Pra Tammananta Thaera, a Burmese monk from Wat Ta Ma-O in Lampang. The Burmese monk revealed that the Kata Chinabanchorn was also chanted in Burma, primarily for protection against dangers and evil. This highlights the Kata's significance and its role as a common prayer in various Buddhist traditions.

Somdej Dto, originally named Prohmrangsri, was ordained early in life and was known for his deep commitment to the Buddha-Dhamma and his profound understanding and practice of Vipassana mindfulness. His spiritual prowess and dedication to the Buddhist teachings earned him a significant following. However, it was his creation of the Pra Somdej amulets that cemented his legacy in Thai history.

Pra Somdej Wat rakang from the Kru Chamber at the Temple of the giant Sleeping Buddha statue at Wat Sadter


The Pra Somdej amulets of Somdej Dto, particularly those from Wat Rakang Kositaram, Wat Bang Khun Prohm, and Wat Gaes Chaiyo, are considered the "King of Thai amulets." These sacred objects are revered for their spiritual potency and historical and monetary value, with some fetching prices as high as fifty million baht. The amulets are renowned for their various "Pim" (pressings/editions), including the popular "Pim Pra Pratan," "Pim Ges Bua Dtum," "Pim Chedi," "Pim Thaan Saem," and "Pim Prok Po."

Pra Somdej Wat Rakang Kositaram Pim Prok Po Somdej Pra Buddhacharn Toh


The legend of Somdej Dto is filled with tales of miraculous events and profound wisdom. One of the most enduring stories is about the making of the Pra Somdej amulets. It is said that Somdej Dto meticulously crafted these amulets using a secret formula that included sacred powders, herbs, and relics. The process was imbued with deep spiritual rituals and blessings, making each amulet a powerful conduit of protection.

A pivotal chapter in the life of Somdej Dto unfolds within the hallowed precincts of Bang Khun Prohm's Chedi Gru. Between the years 2411 and 2413 of the Buddhist Era, a period shrouded in a certain historical haze, the revered monk embarked upon a sacred endeavor. Adhering to age-old formulas, he created many different amulets, each imbued with the essence of the Buddha's profound wisdom. While the precise chronology of this event remains a subject of scholarly debate, with historical accounts offering varying perspectives, the enduring spiritual significance of these amulets is a cornerstone of unwavering faith for countless devotees.


Pra Somdej Wat Rakang Kositaram Pim Pra Pratan Yai Somdej Pra Buddhacharn Toh


Somdej Dto's amulets are revered not merely for their purported spiritual efficacy but also for the exquisite artistry that defines them. Discerning collectors and ardent admirers of Pra Somdej amulets place paramount importance on the accurate assessment of age and the composition of the Muan Sarn, the sacred materials employed in their creation. Authenticating these revered objects necessitates an intimate understanding of the nuanced aging processes and a keen eye for differentiating genuine artifacts from the myriad of imitations that have emerged over time.

Beneath the aura of fame and the substantial monetary value associated with his amulets, Somdej Dto's life was marked by humility and unwavering devotion. His teachings resonated with a profound emphasis on mindfulness, compassion, and the steadfast adherence to the Dhamma. A beacon of spiritual guidance, his influence extended far beyond his lifetime, inspiring generations of Buddhists and seekers on their spiritual journeys.

The legend of Somdej Pra Puttajarn (Dto) Prohmrangsri is a rich and complex narrative, full of profound wisdom, miraculous tales, and an enduring impact on the fabric of Thai Buddhism. His creation of the Pra Somdej amulets stands as a testament to his extraordinary spiritual attainments and continues to serve as a wellspring of inspiration and reverence. These amulets, much like the revered monk himself, transcend the material realm, embodying the timeless essence of the Buddha's teachings and the enduring power of faith.


Somdej Dto's Pra Somdej amulets hold a significant place in Thai Buddhism due to their multifaceted importance. These amulets are believed to possess spiritual potency, historical significance, monetary value, rarity, and a close association with Somdej Dto, a highly revered Buddhist monk.

Pra Somdej Pim Yai Long Rak Chart Jeen Boran Wat rakang Kositaram

The spiritual potency of these amulets is attributed to the spiritual energy they are said to carry from Somdej Dto. This energy is believed to provide protection, blessings, and good fortune to the wearer. The amulets are not merely seen as objects, but as spiritual conduits that connect the wearer to the profound wisdom and blessings of Somdej Dto.

Historically, the Pra Somdej amulets serve as a testament to Somdej Dto's spiritual prowess and his significant role in Thai Buddhism. They are tangible artifacts that encapsulate the essence of his teachings and his profound understanding of the Buddhist philosophy. As such, they are highly valued for their historical significance.

In terms of monetary value, some Pra Somdej amulets, particularly those from Wat Rakang Kositaram, are highly prized and can fetch prices as high as fifty million baht. This value is a reflection of their rarity, historical significance, and the deep reverence held for Somdej Dto.

Pra Somdej Wat rakhang


Somdej Toh's Pra Somdej amulets are renowned for their rarity, which significantly contributes to their appeal and value in the eyes of collectors and devotees alike. The scarcity of these amulets is not solely due to their limited supply, but also stems from the intricate and meticulous process involved in their creation. This process is steeped in deep spiritual rituals and blessings, which add a layer of sacred significance to each amulet. The revered Thai monk, Somdej Toh, was known for his profound spiritual wisdom and practices, and each amulet is said to be imbued with his spiritual essence. This makes the Pra Somdej amulets not just rare and valuable, but also highly revered spiritual artifacts.