Studying, Interpreting and Deciphering the Teachings of Luang Pu Suang, The Angel Playing on The Soil

Abstract

       This paper examines the background and teachings, both core principles and miscellaneous teachings of Luang Pu Suwang. It delves into the moral mysteries and embedded lessons found in the discourses and chants, which are scattered but have not yet been systematically organized by Luang Pu Suwang. Furthermore, this paper aims to interpret and decode these teachings in a manner conducive to moral development and the enhancement of the quality of life for those who follow his path.

          The study found that the background of Luang Pu Suwang reveals him as a Cambodian Buddhist monk who migrated to Thailand long ago. However, his true background remains unknown, leading to uncertainty among observers regarding his status as a monk, lay person, or an ascetic. Certain behaviors contribute to this ambiguity, causing some to perceive him superficially and thus debate his true identity.

          The teachings, which serve as the main core and miscellaneous, cover all three aspects of meritorious deeds (Puñña-kiriya-vatthu): liberality (dāna-maya), morality (sīla-maya), and mental cultivation (bhāvanā-maya). The moral teachings focus on fundamental practices, social relationships, economics, and the progress and prosperity in life. As for the teachings embedded in the sermons and chants, they involve worshiping the five Buddhas in this Auspicious aeon (bhadrakalpa), worshiping the triple gems, and encouraging people to perform good deeds through body, speech, and mind.

          The results of the study were found that History : Luang Pu Suang was a Cambodian monk, a commoner, who had traveled to Thailand a long time ago. No one knew his true history. Some behaviors made people who looked at Luang Pu superficially. It was impossible to discern whether he was a monk or a layperson or a hermit. It became a matter of debate.

          Teachings which were the core and the pakinnaka covered the 3 merits of merit: the giving, the precepts and the mental development. Mysterious teachings focused on meditation practice, social relations, economics and progress flourish in life. But the teachings hidden in the chants were the worship of the 5 Buddhas in this Bhadrakappa, worshipping the Triple Gem and allowing people to do good with their body, speech, and mind.