Wat Sangkarachai

Wat Sangkarachai is a historic temple located on the northern bank of the Bangkok Yai Canal. According to the Chronicle of Royal Temples preserved at the Vajiranana Library, this temple is an ancient site that was re-established during the reign of King Rama I, Phra Phutthayotfa Chulalok the Great. It was granted to Chao Chom Waen, also known as Khun Suea, one of the King’s principal consorts. During the reign of King Rama III, Phra Nangklao, the temple underwent further restoration.

 

The temple holds a distinguished place in Thai literary history. It is recognized as the origin of a revered literary masterpiece, the “Chuchok Chapter” from the Vessantara Jataka, a deeply meaningful and melodious work that has touched the hearts of readers and listeners alike. It is said that Prince Paramanujita Jinorasa, one of Thailand’s greatest royal poets, composed new versions of most chapters of the Maha Jati Rayao (Vessantara Jataka in lyrical verse), but chose not to rewrite the Chuchok Chapter. He declared that the original version created at Wat Sangkarachai surpassed anything he could write. This decision is a clear testament to the excellence of the temple’s original composition, although the true identity of the author remains unknown. The attribution to “Wat Sangkarachai” alone survives, making it a matter of continued interest for scholars of Thai literature.

 

The name of Wat Sangkarachai also appears in the renowned Thai literary work Nirat Narin, written by Narinthibet (In). He composed this poetic travelogue during a journey accompanying Prince Anuchathiraj, Deputy Viceroy, to suppress a Burmese siege of Thalang (Phuket). As the boat passed Wat Sangkarachai, he composed a poignant verse:

 

“Sangkarachai, from thee I part, my dearest one, Like Vishnu’s conch, glowing bright in heaven's sun. May your spirit be bathed in divine delight, And when I think of you, let my path be light.”

 

This poetic reference reflects both sacred reverence and personal yearning, affirming Wat Sangkarachai’s place not only in Thai history but also in the emotional and literary landscape of the nation.