Introduction
Most Venerable Luang Por Piak is widely regarded as one of the most profoundly realized meditation masters in the contemporary Thai Forest Tradition. Known for his sharp wisdom and his mastery of both concentration and insight, he is often described as a "teacher of teachers." Despite his high attainment, he maintains a remarkably humble and accessible presence, making him a beloved figure for both monastics and lay practitioners in Malaysia and worldwide.
Academic Beginnings and the Search for Truth
Born in 1948 as Prasobchai, the young Luang Por Piak did not initially lean toward a religious life. He was a high achiever in the secular world, eventually traveling to New York to pursue a Master’s Degree. It was during his time in the United States that a profound curiosity about the nature of the mind began to emerge.
When he returned to Thailand for medical treatment, this intellectual curiosity turned into a practical search. He spent time at a monastery under Luang Pu Boon Nah, where he discovered a natural, powerful affinity for meditation. What was intended to be a temporary three-month "Rains Retreat" ordination transformed into a lifelong commitment to the Holy Life.
Finding the Right Teacher: The Meeting with Ajahn Chah
Acting on a suggestion from his aunt, the young monk visited three of the greatest living masters of that era: Luang Pu Kao, Luang Pu Fun, and Ajahn Chah—all of whom were direct disciples of the legendary Ajahn Mun.
Upon meeting Ajahn Chah, Luang Por Piak experienced a powerful intuitive realization that he had found his spiritual home. He received full Bhikkhu ordination from Ajahn Chah on July 3, 1976. His dedication was so total that he quickly became one of the lineage's most respected practitioners, known for his relentless effort and clear insight.
Abbot of Wat Pah Cittabhavana
Today, Luang Por Piak serves as the Abbot of Wat Pah Cittabhavana in Pathum Thani, located just north of Bangkok. Despite its proximity to the city, the monastery is a sanctuary of forest silence. Under his guidance, it has become a premier center for Dhamma study and practice, attracting seekers from all over the world.
Luang Por Piak is uniquely skilled at teaching urban professionals, as his own background in Western academia allows him to present the Dhamma in a way that is logical, systematic, and direct.