Luang Phor Derm Phuttasaro

Luang Pho Derm Phutthasaro (6 February 1861 – 22 May 1951), known as the God of Nakhon Sawan, was a Thai Buddhist monk and abbot of Wat Nong Pho. He is famous for creating the most renowned ritual knives (meed mor) in Thailand. Many disciples studied occult Buddhist practices under him, including Luang Pho Kan of Wat Khao Kaew, Luang Pho Kuay of Wat Khositaram, Luang Pho Chuea of Wat Mai Bamphenbun, and Luang Pho Charan Thitthammo of Wat Ampawan. He was tall, dignified, and widely respected.^[1][2]

Luang Pho Derm was born in 1861 during the reign of King Mongkut and became known for his spiritual and community contributions in Nakhon Sawan Province.^[3]

He was ordained at the ordination hall of Wat Khao Kaew, Phayuha Khiri District, Nakhon Sawan, on 31 October 1880, during the reign of King Chulalongkorn. His preceptor was Luang Pho Kaew of Wat Intharam (Wat Nai), the sermon teacher was Luang Pho Ngern (Phra Khru Phayuha Nusak) of Wat Prang Lueang, and the monitor was Luang Pho Thet of Wat Sa Talay. He received the dhamma name Phutthasaro.^[4]

After ordination, he studied Buddhist scriptures and occult knowledge under Luang Ta Chom of Wat Nong Pho and the respected scholar Nai Phan Chuphan of Nong Pho village, among others.^[5] He created numerous amulets, charms, and ritual objects such as Nang Kwak, lion figures, Takrud, Yantra cloths, footprints, ritual knives, and rings, all famous for their mystical power.^[6]

Luang Pho Derm was granted the ecclesiastical title Phra Khru Niwat Thammakhan and served as the district abbot of Phayuha Khiri and as a preceptor. He died on 22 May 1951, during the reign of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, at the age of 90, having served 70 rains retreats.^[7]