Wat Khanikaphon

 Introduction

  In the heart of Bangkok, along Plabplachai Road, stands Wat Khanikaphon, a temple with an extraordinary genesis dating back to 1833 during the reign of King Nang Klao (Rama III) .

Its inception is attributed to Madam Faeng, the proprietor of a prominent brothel in the Trok Tao area (now Soi 8 of Yaowarat Road). Driven by deep faith and a desire for spiritual merit, Madam Faeng rallied the women working in her establishment to pool their earnings from prostitution to fund the temple’s construction.

   Initially known informally as “Wat Mai Yai Faeng” in honor of its founder, the temple’s early days were marked by a poignant moment during its opening ceremony. The invited monk, Somdet Phra Phutthachan, delivered a sermon that challenged Madam Faeng‘s hopes for immediate redemption, declaring the funds “sinful money” and thus limiting the merit she would receive.

   Despite this revelation, the temple persevered as a place of worship and solace for the community. Later, during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), Madam Faeng‘s descendants undertook renovations and sought an official name for the temple. The King bestowed the significant name “Wat Khanikaphon,” meaning “the temple built with the profits of the prostitutes.”

 5 points of worship
  • Point 1 : Luang Phor Sothorn and Phra Somdet Ajarn Toh (Famous Buddha and monk)

At this point, people often come to pay homage to Luang Phor  Sothorn, worship the Buddha’s footprint, and light incense sticks to pay homage to Somdet Toh for good fortune, along with ringing the bell. The pavilion is at the entrance of the temple, open 24 hours every day.

  • Point 2 : Luang Pho Thongkham

The ordination hall (ubosot) is a structure in traditional Thai architectural style, with a simple exterior that conceals Thai ornamental patterns. Within the ordination hall is enshrined Luang Pho Thongkham, a Buddha image in the Maravijaya (Victory over Mara) posture, rendered in the classical style of Sukhothai art.

  • Point 3 : Luang Pho Ong Dam

Luang Pho Ong Dam is a Buddha image believed to have been created during the reign of King Rama III. Although it now appears in gold, it is assumed that the image was originally black. The black color is thought to have come from rak, a dark resin derived from certain trees, which was traditionally applied to Buddha images as a base layer before the application of gold leaf. Luang Pho Ong Dam is surrounded by numerous Buddha images of various sizes and postures. One notable image is the Buddha in the Ascetic Practices posture, also known as the self-mortification posture.

  • Point 4 : Yai Faeng

People like to come here to pray for success in life, career, luck, and love. Incense sticks were lit to make wishes and offer things to Yai Faeng, such as Thai clothing, cosmetics, and perfume.

  • Point 5 : Hua Noi Ma

A complete skeleton, excavated during the temple’s cemetery cleaning. In ancient times, people believed that it was a good thing, a sacred thing, and was famous for bringing good fortune.

https://www.facebook.com/share/16bZPew6yh/?mibextid=wwXIfr

At Phlapphla Chai, Khwaeng Pom Prap, Pom Prap Sattru Phai District, Bangkok, in front of the Phlapphla Chai police station

 A 360 tour of the temple by Somchit Thanatha

https://maps.app.goo.gl/6omw8qByxniDGWQh8

This is a 3D modeling of the statue of Madame Faeng

Madame Faeng by kansunan on Sketchfab

Sarunya Kitmongkolsak (6627648014)
Phattarida Saetsakul (6627648022)
Kansunan Kaewngam (6627648212)

References 

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    The Digital Thai Temples Project aims to digitise Bangkok’s temples for education and preservation.