Heading 2: Wat Amphawan – A Temple of Insight Meditation
Wat Amphawan, located in Tambon Phrom Buri along Highway 36 at km. 130, is a temple renowned for its insight meditation practice. The temple is not widely known by its name, but rather by the revered abbot, Luang Pho Charan Thitathammo. People who are interested in Dharma and meditation often visit the temple to worship Luang Pho and engage in vigorous Dharma practice.
Heading 3: The Abbot and His Teachings
Luang Pho Charan Thitathammo, also known as Phra Ratchasuthi Yan Mongkhon, is the abbot of Wat Amphawan. He is highly respected for his profound wisdom and teachings on insight meditation. Luang Pho encourages people to cultivate mindfulness and develop a deep understanding of the nature of existence. Through his guidance, many practitioners have experienced spiritual growth and transformation.
Heading 3: The Almshouse and Daily Offerings
Wat Amphawan has a large almshouse where fresh food is served daily to the local community. The temple is committed to providing nourishment and support to those in need. The surrounding area is well-maintained and kept clean, reflecting the temple’s dedication to creating a peaceful and harmonious environment for meditation and spiritual practice.
Heading 2: Historical Significance of Wat Amphawan
Originally named Wat Amphawan during the Ayutthaya Period, this ancient temple in Phrom Buri district, Sing Buri province, holds great historical significance. Evidence of its past can be found in a stone inscription written in Chinese characters. The inscription reveals that Chinese merchants, along with Dutch traders, used a ship to conduct business with Somdet Phra Narai Maharat in Lop Buri. During their visit, they constructed an ordination hall at Wat Amphawan, under the supervision of Phra Khru Yannasangwon, who was then 99 years old.
Heading 3: The Phra Nak Pok Hin Images
During the construction of the ordination hall, Chinese friends of the temple requested two Phra Nak Pok Hin images from Somdet Phra Narai Maharat. These sacred images were kept in the ordination hall until a new one was built. This gesture demonstrates the strong cultural and historical ties between the Chinese community and Wat Amphawan.
Heading 3: Continuous Repair and Maintenance
Over the years, Wat Amphawan has undergone various repairs and maintenance to preserve its cultural and architectural heritage. The temple’s dedication to its upkeep has earned it recognition as a model temple by the Department of Religious Affairs. This recognition further highlights the importance of Wat Amphawan as a spiritual and cultural landmark in the region.
Heading 2: How to Reach Wat Amphawan
Wat Amphawan’s popularity makes it easily accessible by private car. Travelers can take Asia Road at km. 78 and turn left towards the temple. There is a checkpoint in the middle of the road, known as the Sing Buri Highway Maintenance District Office, which serves as a landmark for visitors. Additionally, buses from Bangkok to Sing Buri or Bangkok to Amphoe Wat Sing are available for those without private transportation. From the entrance to the temple, motorcycle taxis are readily available for transportation to the temple itself. Travelers coming from Mueang Sing Buri can also take a pickup truck of Sing Buri-Wat Trachu. Furthermore, a van service operates from the Victory Monument to In Buri, with hourly departures until 5.30 p.m., providing convenient access to Wat Amphawan.
Heading 3: Additional Information
For further information about Wat Amphawan, visitors can contact the temple at Tel. 0 3659 9381 or visit their website www.jarun.org. The temple staff will be more than happy to assist with any inquiries or provide additional details about the temple’s history, activities, and meditation practices.
Heading 2: Conclusion
Wat Amphawan is a temple steeped in history and renowned for its insight meditation practice. Under the guidance of the revered abbot, Luang Pho Charan Thitathammo, the temple has become a spiritual sanctuary for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Dharma and cultivate mindfulness. The temple’s devotion to providing support to the local community through its almshouse reflects its commitment to compassion and service. With its historical significance, continuous maintenance, and accessibility, Wat Amphawan stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Sing Buri province.
Address And Location:
Phrom Buri Phrom Buri Sing Buri 16160