Long kept in the private collections of wealthy devotees, Thailand’s five most revered talismans — the Benjaphakee Khruang Rang — are now being introduced to the wider public through a special commemorative stamp series by Thailand Post. Traditionally valued in the millions and rarely seen outside elite circles, these legendary objects are considered the pinnacle of spiritual protection in Thai culture. Their release as affordable, blessed stamps marks a rare moment in which sacred heritage becomes accessible to all. Below is an overview of the five talismans featured in this unprecedented collection.
1. The Tiger (Suea) – Luang Phor Parn
The Tiger talisman is regarded as the supreme amulet of all categories. Each piece is carved from naturally hollow tiger fangs — a rare feature known as kluang or prong faa (“hollow to the sky”). This natural hollowness is believed to hold immense spiritual power even before consecration, granting authority, charisma, and prestige to its bearer. Created over a century ago and already expensive at the time, authentic examples are extremely rare, with around 400 known to exist. Some pieces have been valued at up to 50 million baht.
2. The Hanuman – Luang Phor Sun
This talisman represents Hanuman, the warrior-god of the Ramakien epic. Luang Phor Sun personally cultivated the sacred trees used for carving, watering them with holy water until they matured. During consecration, he sat atop a pile of weapons — swords, knives, spears, even guns — while blessing the figures placed in an alms bowl. According to legend, the enchanted Hanuman figures would leap inside the bowl as the ritual reached its peak. The talisman is believed to grant invincibility, success, and the power to overcome any obstacle.
3. The Takrut Maha Solos Mongkol – Luang Pu Iam
Known as the emperor of all takruts, this rolled-metal scroll is distinguished by the extraordinary devotion invested in its creation. Luang Pu Iam spent three full years consecrating each piece, chanting the refuge prayer 100 times for every scroll. Made from brass taken from monks’ alms bowls, copper, or lead, the takrut offers universal protection and a powerful compassionate charm. Only a few dozen authentic examples remain in circulation today.
4. The Bia Gae – Luang Pu Rod
This talisman is crafted from a cowrie shell with exactly 32 “teeth”, symbolising the 32 components of the human body. Through ritual, liquid mercury was summoned to enter the shell before being sealed with molten lead, sacred black resin, or cloth yantra. Luang Pu Rod then inscribed sacred characters before final consecration. The Bia Gae is revered for its ability to counter dark magic, neutralise curses, and protect against poison.
5. The Rahu Kala Kae – Luang Phor Noi
Carved from a single‑eyed coconut shell, this talisman is associated with reversing misfortune and transforming negative circumstances into positive ones. Believers say it can “repair” a declining horoscope, shielding the wearer from calamities while providing mental balance and stability.
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