Origins & Early Life

Somdet To (1788–1872; B.E. 2331–2415), known formally as Somdet Phra Buddhacarya (To Brahmaramsi) (Thai: สมเด็จพระพุฒาจารย์ (โต พฺรหฺมรํสี); RTGS: Somdet Phra Phutthachan (To Phrommarangsi)), was one of the most famous Buddhist monks during Thailand's Rattanakosin period and continues to be the most widely known saintly monk in Thailand. He is revered for spiritual powers and his amulets are sought after. His images and statues are some of the most popular religious icons in Bangkok.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Somdet To was born in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, alleged to be the illegitimate son of King Rama II. He studied the Buddhist scriptures of the Pāli Canon with several Buddhist masters. After becoming a well-known monk, he became the preceptor for Prince Mongkut, later King Rama IV, when Mongkut became a monk. During Rama IV's reign Somdet To was given the ceremonial name Somdet Phra Buddhacarya (To Brahmaramsi – Buddh[a]charya meaning teacher (acharya) of Buddhism) by the King and used to be one of his trusted advisers, having left a lot of teaching stories around him and the King. He was noted for the skill of his preaching and his use of Thai poetry to reflect the beauty of Buddhism...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Arthur Schopenhauer — Contemporary (Born in 1788) (1788): Pioneering philosopher known for 'The World as Will and Representation' and philosophical pessimism.
• Augustin-Jean Fresnel — Contemporary (Born in 1788) (1788): Pioneering optical physicist known for the wave theory of light and the invention of the Fresnel lens.
• Charles Wesley — Contemporary (Died in 1788) (1788): Prolific hymn writer and key leader of the Methodist movement.
• Aubrey Beardsley — Contemporary (Born in 1872) (1872): Pioneering English illustrator known for decadent, erotic black ink drawings.
• Benito Juárez — Contemporary (Died in 1872) (1872): Pioneering Indigenous President of Mexico, champion of Liberal reforms and the Republic.
• Bertrand Russell — Contemporary (Born in 1872) (1872): Pioneering philosopher and logician, known for analytic thought and social commentary.
• Alexander II of Russia — Shared historical date (04-17 · Born) (1818): Emperor of Russia, known as 'The Liberator' for abolishing serfdom.
• Benjamin Franklin — Shared historical date (04-17 · Died) (1790): American polymath, Founding Father, and inventor who shaped the early United States.
• Abbas Kiarostami — Shared historical date (06-22 · Born) (1940): Master Iranian filmmaker known for blending fiction and documentary styles.
• Adam Schiff — Shared historical date (06-22 · Born) (1960): Long-serving Democratic politician, former Congressman, and current U.S. Senator from California.
• 1788 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1788
• April 17 (04-17) On This Day — Historical birthdays and events on April 17
• 1872 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from 1872
• June 22 (06-22) On This Day — Historical events and memorials on June 22