Venerable Chuen Putthosaro, Revered Ayutthaya Monk, Passes Away

Venerable Chuen Putthosaro, a highly revered former abbot and distinguished teacher at Wat Yansaen in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, was originally named Chuen Yodchim and born on March 18, 1907, in Saraburi Province to parents Chun and Ngim Yodchim. He took his initial ordination at age 15 and temporarily disrobed at 18 to support his family's farming. At age 20, he received his higher ordination on May 14, 1927, at Wat Koh Loi with Venerable Kru Prasut Sanghkij as his preceptor.

He pursued Buddhist scriptural studies, earning degrees in Dharma scholarship, and then undertook intensive training in ancient medicine, astrology, and alchemical practices with various masters. Eventually settling at Wat Yansaen in Ayutthaya around 1955, he studied under Venerable Achan Saen, with whom he later undertook rigorous meditation practice. Despite criticism from some who questioned his unconventional methods, he remained steadfast, eventually completing a month-long intensive meditation retreat under the Bodhi tree.

He became widely respected for his ascetic lifestyle, detachment from material gains, and compassion toward all beings. His blessed amulets and talismans became highly sought after by collectors. In his final years, he required medical care and attention from physicians. On March 18, 2003, his disciples celebrated his 97th birthday. He passed away peacefully on June 17, 2003, at Wat Yansaen, completing a life of devoted spiritual practice.