Wat Mai Tha Pho

Wat Mai Tha Pho is an ancient temple located in Ban Tha Pho, Village No. 5, Na Matum Subdistrict, Phanat Nikhom District, Chonburi Province. It is affiliated with the Mahanikaya sect of Thai Buddhism. The temple grounds cover an area of 5 rai, 1 ngan, and 20 square wah, registered under land title deed number 10859. The temple is surrounded by fertile land and a natural waterway known as Huai Noi, which serves as an important water source for the community. The temple's boundaries are as follows: to the north, adjacent to private land; to the south, adjacent to private land and Huai Noi; to the east, adjacent to private land; and to the west, adjacent to Huai Noi.

 

In addition to the main temple grounds, Wat Mai Tha Pho also possesses four plots of monastic land, totaling 16 rai, 3 ngan, and 96 square wah, with title deeds numbered 6782, 6899, 6898, and 6781. This extensive area provides valuable resources for both temple development and community support.

 

The temple buildings are well-developed and have been constructed to suit modern needs. The ubosot (ordination hall), which serves as the spiritual center for religious activities, was built in 1987. It measures 8 meters wide and 14 meters long, constructed with reinforced concrete to ensure durability. This hall is used for important religious ceremonies, such as ordinations, merit-making rituals, and other Buddhist ceremonies. The sermon hall (sala kan parian), built in the same year, is 15 meters wide and 25 meters long. It is used for teaching the Dhamma, giving sermons, and hosting various community activities.

 

There are four monks’ residences (kuti), all made of reinforced concrete to provide secure and comfortable living quarters for the resident monks. In 1993, a multi-purpose pavilion was added, measuring 15 meters by 22 meters. This pavilion serves as a venue for public events, temple fairs, meetings, and other community gatherings.

 

Additional structures at the temple include a bell tower, measuring 5 by 5 meters, built from reinforced concrete. The bell is rung to signal important times and religious ceremonies. The temple also has a crematorium, 4 by 8 meters in size, which serves the community for funeral rites and cremation ceremonies an essential role in supporting the spiritual needs of local residents. Inside the ubosot, there is a principal Buddha image that is deeply revered by the local community, serving as a sacred symbol and spiritual anchor for worshippers.

 

Wat Mai Tha Pho has a long history, having been established in 1897. It has been the spiritual and cultural heart of the Tha Pho community for over a century. The temple was officially granted Wisungkhamsima (the sacred boundary required for Buddhist rituals) on March 20, 1905. The Wisungkhamsima area measures 6 meters wide and 18 meters long, signifying its official recognition as a temple capable of performing key Buddhist ceremonies according to monastic regulations.

 

Over the years, the temple has been under the guidance of several abbots. The first known abbot was Phra Ma, followed by Phra Khru Thongdee, Phra Samlee, Phra Pan, and Phra Palat Banlue. The current abbot is Phra Samuh Bunsoem, who has served since 1978. Each abbot has played an important role in the growth and development of the temple, ensuring it remains a strong religious center for the local community. In particular, Phra Samuh Bunsoem has focused on continuing religious education and adapting temple activities to meet the needs of modern life.

 

In terms of education, Wat Mai Tha Pho has contributed greatly to spreading Buddhist teachings. In 1997, the temple established a Dhamma school to teach Buddhist principles to monks, novices, and laypeople. This school plays a vital role in nurturing well-educated religious practitioners and preserving Buddhist teachings for future generations.

 

Beyond its religious functions, Wat Mai Tha Pho serves as a unifying center for the community. It is a place where locals gather to make merit, celebrate traditional festivals, and participate in activities that promote unity and cultural continuity. The temple plays a role in every stage of life from birth ceremonies to funeral rites providing spiritual support and guidance throughout.

 

With its long-standing history and deep significance, Wat Mai Tha Pho represents more than just a place of worship. It embodies the faith, traditions, and way of life of the people in Na Matum Subdistrict and surrounding areas. Today, the temple continues to be a cornerstone of religion, culture, and society, preserving Buddhist values and local heritage for generations to come.