Residents Flock to Consecration Ceremony for Kampaeng Sawk Buddha Images; Lottery Enthusiasts Seek Lucky Numbers from Blessed Water
Hundreds gathered at Wat Sawang Arom temple in Nakhon Pathom province on May 24 for a consecration ceremony of ancient Sukhothai-period Buddha amulets, with lottery enthusiasts seeking lucky numbers from the blessed water afterward.
On May 24, 2026, Phra Kru Yuttidhammanuyut (Luang Pho Pae), abbot of Wat Sawang Arom temple in Khun Kaew subdistrict, Nakhon Chai Si district, Nakhon Pathom province, presided over the fourth consecration ceremony for Kampaeng Sawk Buddha images. Distinguished monks were invited including Phra Ratchapatanasophan (Luang Pho Chao Khun Noe) from Wat Thung Setthee along Rama II Road, Phra Kru Wathee Phatrosopon, Phra Kru Somulvira Kitchacharo (abbot of Wat Tuk Tuk), and the renowned hermit Ruesi Nai Thatuputtakun from Ayutthaya province. Together with Luang Pho Pae, they conducted the blessing ritual to strengthen the power of the images.
Luang Pho Pae explained that Kampaeng Sawk Buddha images are ancient pieces from the Sukhothai period, traditionally crafted from molded clay and also known as protective Buddha amulets. According to local legend, these amulets have miraculous protective qualities—one tale tells of a thatched house that burned down completely, yet a Kampaeng Sawk image survived unburned, leading villagers to revere them.
The abbot noted that such ancient Buddha images have become rare, prompting him to create new versions to preserve this cultural heritage. The images are made in three types: Kampaeng Sawk, Kampaeng Khueap, and Kampaeng Nui. They are crafted in clay, bronze, and metal alloys. Devotees can place the larger versions at home for protection, while the smallest type can be worn as an amulet.
The ceremony was held in May because the month aligns numerologically with the number five, and May 2026 contains five Saturdays. The final consecration will take place on May 30th, coinciding with the fifth Saturday. A total of 29 distinguished monks participated in the blessing ritual, along with the hermit Ruesi Nai Thatuputtakun. Production is limited, and the amulets are only available for rent-to-own through the temple.
Lottery enthusiasts were notably present, closely observing the blessed water vessels used by both Luang Pho Pae and Ruesi Nai Thatuputtakun, as both are believed to bring fortune and luck to their devotees. After the ceremony concluded and the blessed water was distributed to attendees, many quickly photographed the vessels to interpret them as lucky lottery numbers. The numbers derived from Luang Pho Pae's blessed water were interpreted as 801, while those from Ruesi Nai's water were 832.
