Somdej Phra Puttajarn Toh Promrangsi (Somdej Toh)
B.E.2331~2415 (1788 ~ 1872 CE)
Wat Rakhangkhositraram Woramahavihan, Bangkok
Somdej Toh was born in 1788 in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, Somdej Toh was ordained as a novice monk in 1800 CE at the age of 12 and is one of the most famous Buddhist monks during Thailand Rattanakosin period. It is believed that he is the son of King Rama II of the Chakri Dynasty. At the age of 21, year 1807 CE - he was ordained as monk under the Royal Patronage at Wat Praseeratanasasadaram (Wat Prakeo) in Bangkok. He studied the Buddhist scriptures of the Pali Canon with several Buddhist masters. The venurable monk was known to be a good speaker as well as a highly intelligent and compassionate person. He was also persistent and patient. He made many Buddha images for temples and most particularly 73 models of Phra Somdej.
He also built many Buddha statues and temples. After becoming a well-known monk, he became the preceptor for Prince Mongkut, later when Mongkut became a monk. In 1864 CE at the age of 76 during Rama IV reign Somdej Toh was given the ceremonial name Phra Buddhacharn Toh Phomarangsi. His tenure in the monastery began in the reign of King Rama I until the reign of King Rama IV, a total of 65 years. Somdej Toh is said to have been the teacher of King Rama V when he was young. He was noted for the skill of his preaching and used of Thai poetry to reflect the beauty of Buddhism and for making amulets called Phra Somdej. This highly revered Phra Somdej amulet is originated from Wat Rakhang "Temple of Bell" in Bangkok. The amulets were blessed by him and other respected famous monks in Thailand.
He passed away in 1872 CE at the age of 84. He is probably one of the most respected monks in Thailand.
