Ancient Golden Teak Tree Draws Lottery Seekers to Kamphaeng Phet Temple

On August 1, a reporter visited Wat Kalpaprueksa in Lan Dok Flowers subdistrict, Mueang district, Kamphaeng Phet province, following the discovery of a massive golden teak tree near the temple's Ping River landing on July 19. Initially mistaken for ordinary timber and nearly felled, the tree was identified as a golden teak after river currents washed away sediment, revealing its true nature. The tree, measuring 22.8 meters long and 3.6 meters in circumference, was then hoisted and placed beside the temple's ordination hall, where locals conducted veneration ceremonies and presented offerings.

Large crowds gathered to pay respects, bringing flowers, Thai silk, and powder to rub on the tree while seeking lucky lottery numbers. Many visitors reported seeing the numbers "52, 44, 79, 525, and 857," while incense divination on the day the tree was brought up revealed "789." According to temple committee member Saad Santiam, a former village headman, the tree's previous owner reported experiencing sudden wealth after encountering it, prompting villagers to bring it to the temple to share its fortune.

During the ceremony, a medium channeling the tree's spirit identified her as "Mae Jan Hom," a 307-year-old goddess who said she emerged from the water because of the cold. Since then, villagers have reported receiving winning lottery numbers daily. Temple officials believe the perfectly preserved golden teak represents an auspicious time for the tree to create merit and bring luck to the community, especially with the August 1 government lottery draw marking the first draw since its arrival.