Luang Por Chamnan's Novice Monk Portrait (series:temple’s embossed seal) by Luang Por Chamnan

Description:

Luang Por Chamnan's Novice Monk Portrait (Series: Temple’s Embossed Seal) by "Phra Rajsiri Wachararangsi" Luang Por Than Chao Khun Chamnan Uttamapanyo, Abbot of Wat Chinwararam Worawihan (Royal Monastery), Pathum Thani Province.

For those who deeply respect and have faith in Luang Por Chamnan, this portrait is not merely a sacred object, but serves as a poignant reminder, inviting one to reflect on his endless compassion, Dharma teachings, diligence, and unwavering determination. Luang Por Chamnan, a monk who only gives, stands as a profound shelter and refuge like the shade of the Bodhi tree for his disciples.
 

This particular portrait edition is special because it is the first novice monk portrait series to feature an embossed temple seal, which has never appeared in any other novice monk portrait editions. It is an old set of portraits that Luang Por Chamnan consecrated through meditation and chanting for nearly ten years before being released as commemorative keepsakes for those who made merit at Wat Chinwararam on Sunday, September 14, 2025.
 

It is often said that "A photograph is the best keeper of memories". This particular portrait of Luang Por Chamnan is regarded as a historical portrait, a moment in time that can never be recreated. Taken sometime between 1986 and 1995 (B.E. 2529–2538), during his novice years. (Luang Por Chamnan was ordained as a novice monk on Saturday, the 14th waxing moon of the 8th lunar month in the Year of the Tiger, corresponding to July 19, 1986, at Wat Bang Luang, Bang Luang Subdistrict, Mueang Pathum Thani District, Pathum Thani Province.)

The portrait captures Luang Por Chamnan's youthful face, which reflects a deep inner determination, unwavering commitment, and profound faith in the Dhamma since he was only about ten years old. Over time, this image has become affectionately and respectfully known among his disciples as the "Novice Monk Portrait" (Roop Na Naen), serving as a powerful reminder of his long and devoted path under the saffron robes.
 

In this portrait, Luang Por Chamnan is wearing the monk’s robe in the style called “Fully Draped" (Hom Klum), also known as “Hom Dong", which means the robe is draped over both the left and right shoulders, covering the entire upper body. This is different from the “One-Shoulder Draping" (Hom Chiang) style, where the right shoulder is left bare, commonly worn during chanting, recitation, or activities within the temple.
 

The “Fully Draped" (Hom Klum)” style is traditionally favored by Buddhist monks and is often seen in old portraits of revered monks. This way of wearing the robe reflects a demeanor of calmness, modesty, and humility, while fully demonstrating respect and adherence to the Vinaya (monastic code).
 

This particular portrait is considered to be the oldest known portrait of Luang Por Chamnan. It serves as a living testament to the beginning of his long and steadfast journey of cultivating merit under the saffron robes. Throughout the years, Luang Por Chamnan has diligently accumulated merit through acts of compassion, helping all sentient beings, whether humans or animals. He tirelessly supports laypeople in both worldly and spiritual matters, practices righteous conduct, and upholds the Buddhist faith. His dedication extends to the maintenance and patronage of temples, schools, hospitals, and local communities, both nearby and in remote areas, embodying an unwavering commitment to service and virtue to this day.
 

Luang Por Chamnan is truly a worthy disciple of the Blessed One, the Supreme Buddha, deserving of reverence and worship. He is a precious blessing for those who pay their respects with genuine devotion. As the Sāṅghakaraṇa chant declares: "Āhune yo pāhune yo takkhiṇā ye yo añjalikaraṇī yo", meaning: "The monk who is worthy of homage, worthy of welcome, worthy of offerings, and worthy of respectful salutation is the supreme field of merit in the world".

"For over 39 years, Luang Por Chamnan has cultivated merit and spiritual perfection under the saffron robes". The portrait that reflects and reminds the faithful of the long path of merit-building of Luang Por Chamnan.