Somdej Toh facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Somdet Phra Buddhacarya (Toh Brahmaramsi)
Religion	Buddhism
School	Theravada, Maha Nikaya
Other names	Somdet To (สมเด็จโต) Khrua To (ขรัวโต)
Dharma names	Brahmaramsi (พฺรหฺมรํสี)
Personal
Nationality	Siamese
Born	To (โต) (1788-04-17)April 17, 1788 Tha Ruea, Ayutthaya, Siam
Died	June 22, 1872(1872-06-22) (aged 84) Bang Khun Phrom, Bangkok, Siam

Somdet To (1788-1872) was a very famous Buddhist monk in Thailand. He lived during the Rattanakosin Period. Even today, he is still one of the most well-known monks in Thailand.

Many people in Thailand believe he had special powers. His special amulets are highly valued. You can see his pictures and statues all over Bangkok. His full name was Somdet Phra Buddhacarya (To Brahmaramsi).

Life Story of Somdet To

Somdet To was born in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. He was the son of King Rama II. From a young age, he studied Buddhist teachings. He learned from many wise Buddhist masters.

Becoming a Respected Monk

Somdet To became a well-known monk. He even taught Prince Mongkut. This prince later became King Rama IV. When Mongkut became a monk, Somdet To was his teacher.

During King Rama IV's rule, Somdet To received a special name. The King called him Somdet Phra Buddhacarya (To Brahmaramsi). This name means "teacher of Buddhism." Somdet To was a trusted advisor to the King. Many stories are told about their time together.

His Skills and Legacy

Somdet To was known for his amazing preaching skills. He used Thai poetry to share the beauty of Buddhism. He also created special amulets called Somdej amulets.

These amulets were blessed by him and other respected monks. People in Thailand still seek them today. Somdet To also appears in stories about the ghost Mae Nak Phra Khanong. In these tales, he is the one who finally calms the ghost.

He also wrote the Jinapanjara. This is a protective chant. Many Thai people still use and chant it for protection.