Wat Sing Sutthawat

Rating: 4.3/5 (4 votes)

Operating day: Daily

Operating time: 08.00 - 17.00

 

Wat Sing Sutthawat Pho Sang Kho, Khai Bang Ra Chan, Sing Buri. Originally named Wat Takhian, after the Takhian trees symbolizing its founding, this temple was established in 1848 (BE 2391). Later, when the government relocated the town of Singh from the Chaksi River to a location by the Noi River, south of Wat Takhian, the temple's name was subsequently changed to Wat Sing to align with the town's name. During the tenure of Phra Maha Niam Kertmek as the abbot, the name was extended to Wat Sing Sutthawat.

 

Since August 11, 1998 (BE 2541), Phra Kru Wisutthaphirak has served as the abbot. Under his leadership, the temple grounds have been meticulously organized, dividing the areas into the Buddhavas (sacred space) and Sanghavas (monastic space). He has created a serene and beautiful environment by establishing gardens adorned with flowering plants and ornamental trees. Proverbs and moral teachings are displayed on signs attached to the trees, known as "talking trees," offering life lessons and spiritual guidance.

 

The temple houses a revered image of the Buddha, Phra Phutthachai, enshrined in a mandapa. This Buddha image, in the Naga-Protected posture, is made of carved stone. Locally known as Luang Pho Nak, the statue features a seven-headed Naga spreading its hood around the Buddha's head. Behind the image, a Dharma Wheel symbol is prominently displayed.

 

Additionally, two clay lion statues were discovered, believed to be the inspiration for the temple's name, "Wat Sing." One of these lions was relocated to Bang Rachan District Office (previously Singh District) by Khun Singkhonphumma, where it remains today.

 

Luang Pho Nak holds great spiritual significance for the local community, who venerate the statue deeply. In the past, attempts were made to steal the statue, but supernatural occurrences thwarted the efforts. Witnesses reported mysterious phenomena, such as a dark shadow obscuring the statue, preventing its theft. Eventually, during the abbacy of Phra Achan Boontham, Luang Pho Nak was relocated to the temple's ordination hall for safekeeping. However, during the tenure of Phra Achan Uab, the statue was stolen. Tragically, those involved in the theft reportedly met untimely deaths. The current statue of Luang Pho Nak is a replica made of plaster.

 

Travel The temple is accessible via multiple routes, with the simplest being the Sanchan-Singh Bang Rachan Road.