Luang Phor Sook (Thai: หลวงปู่ศุข) was the legendary master of Wat Pak Klong Makham Tao in Chainat Province, Thailand, renowned for his potent power and the efficacy of his sacred objects, and famed above all as the teacher of Prince Chumphon, the "father of the Royal Thai Navy" — one of the most revered monks of modern Thailand.
Origins and Training
Luang Phor Sook was born in B.E. 2390 (1847) in the village of Pak Klong Makham Tao, Wat Sing District, Chainat Province. At the age of twenty-two he received full ordination at Wat Po Tong Lang in Nonthaburi, devoting himself to the study of the Dhamma and meditation before setting out on austere wandering practice (Thudong), during which he sought out many masters and acquired profound esoteric knowledge; among them he studied the secrets of alchemy and magical metallurgy under Luang Phu Tap of Wat Anongkaram.
Restoring an Ancient Temple
When his mother fell ill, Luang Phor Sook ended his wandering and returned home, taking up residence at a dilapidated old temple in his native village. Resolving to rebuild it, he raised new halls and buildings and restored the temple to new splendour; in B.E. 2447 (1904) it received official recognition under the name Wat Pak Klong Makham Tao.
Teacher of the Father of the Navy
Legend tells that when Prince Chumphon (Kromluang Chumphon, son of King Rama IV and father of the Royal Thai Navy) once moored his damaged warship near Wat Pak Klong Makham Tao and came to pay respects, Luang Phor Sook addressed him by name, to the prince's astonishment. The prince became his disciple and his closest lay follower, receiving the full transmission of his Dhamma and esoteric arts — a bond of master and disciple that adds further lustre to Luang Phor Sook's legend.
Sacred Objects and Meaning
Luang Phor Sook passed away in B.E. 2466 (1923). The sacred objects he personally oversaw are famed for their potent power, their protection from danger and their drawing of wealth and fortune, regarded as treasures among the classical sacred objects of Thailand and long sought after by collectors. They are honoured with reverence and proper offerings.