Product: Phra Somdej

Origin: Luang Ta Mahā Boowa_Wat Pa Ban Tad

Period: B.E. 2548 (Year 2005)

Enclose casing (Color):  Stainless Steel and Clear Acrylics Display

Size of Amulet (approx): 27.1 mmW x 39.2 mmH x 6.8 mmT

Size of Case (approx): 32.1 mmW x 50.7 mmH x 16.6 mmT

Ajahn Maha Boowa (1914–2011)

Venerable Ajahn Maha Boowa, born Pra Dharma Visuthimongkol (พระธรรมวิสุทธิมงคล), and often referred to as Luang Ta Maha Bua in Thai, was one of Thailand's most influential Buddhist monks of the 20th century. The title "Ajahn" (or "Acharn") translates to "teacher" and is a common honorific for Buddhist monks in Thailand, akin to terms like "Bhikkhu" or "Rishi" in other traditions. Ajahn Maha Boowa is regarded by many as an Arahant, a living Buddhist saint, and he is widely recognized as a leading figure in the Thai Forest Tradition.

A dedicated disciple of the renowned forest meditation master Ajahn Mun Bhuridatta, Ajahn Maha Boowa became a spiritual leader in his own right, known for his deep mastery of meditation practices and his teachings on mental clarity and peace of mind.

Born into a prosperous farming family in Udon Thani in northeastern Thailand, he was ordained as a monk on May 12, 1934, at the age of 20. Initially, Ajahn Maha Boowa planned to live a relatively short monastic life, fulfilling his family's expectations. However, his encounter with Phra Ajahn Mun Puritatto in Sakhon Nakhon Province would prove to be a transformative turning point. Under Ajahn Mun's guidance, he was introduced to the profound teachings of the Buddha, which led him to pursue a deeper path of spiritual awakening.

After spending eight years under Ajahn Mun's mentorship, Ajahn Maha Boowa returned to Pabaantad Temple in the Muang District of Udon Thani. It was here that he spent the remainder of his life, continuing to practice and teach meditation, while also addressing various social concerns affecting the country.

Beyond his reputation as a spiritual practitioner, Ajahn Maha Boowa became known for his active role in responding to social crises. One notable instance was during Thailand's 1997 economic crisis, when the nation faced widespread financial instability. With the country in distress, Ajahn Maha Boowa urged his fellow Thais to contribute their wealth—including money, gold, and valuable items—to the Bank of Thailand to help stabilize the economy. His call to action resulted in a remarkable outpouring of support, raising more than US$10 million and 12 tonnes of gold, which were deposited into the nation's reserves. His appeal was rooted in the values of national unity, sacrifice, and collective effort in times of adversity.

Ajahn Maha Boowa’s commitment to his country and the welfare of its people is also reflected in his will, written on May 7, 2010, where he expressed his wish for the funds donated to him by his followers to be given to the Bank of Thailand as a reserve fund. In the same document, he emphasized the importance of harmony and cooperation among his followers, urging them to remain united in the pursuit of their spiritual goals.

The depth of his impact can be seen in the loyalty of his followers. When Ajahn Maha Boowa passed away in 2011, an outpouring of gratitude and respect was seen in the swift contributions made by his devotees. In just ten days after his death, over 35 million baht (approximately US$ 1.2 million) was raised, alongside further donations in the form of cheques, gold, and foreign currency. These funds were eventually used to purchase gold, which was then deposited into the National Bank as per his final wishes.