Many people often have these questions: What kind of masters are "Luang Phor," "Kruba," and "Ajarn"? What are the titles for monks in Thailand? Are they the same as the "Dharma names" given to monks in China?
Thailand is divided into three main regions: South, North, and Central. Therefore, the names for monks differ across these three areas. In Northern Thailand, monks are called " Kruba " ; in Central Thailand, they are called " Luang Phor " ; and in Southern Thailand, they are called " Phor Tam . "
Luang Pu: A senior monk who is over 70 years old is called "Shigong".
Longpi: A younger monk, Pi means elder brother. It probably also means "senior brother".
Luang Phor: A term of address for senior monks or temple abbots, implying fatherly authority, and is also known as "Master".
The Supreme Patriarch (or Patriarch of Thailand) is a monk whose rank is second only to the Supreme Patriarch. He is selected by the Office of the Supervisory Authority of Monks, primarily based on his contributions to the country and the degree of public adoration. This honor must be bestowed by the King of Thailand.
Somdej: Also known as " Somdej , " it is the highest title in Thai Buddhism. It signifies a holy monk and represents the highest rank among Thai monks. It is used to address the Supreme Patriarch (Supreme Patriarch) or Deputy Supreme Patriarch, and requires an official appointment by the King of Thailand.
Chao Khun: In the Thai monastic system, he is the monk in charge of a province or prefecture. His responsibilities include financial allocation, resource allocation, and temple management.
The Supreme Patriarch: The highest-ranking official in the Thai monastic system. The Supreme Patriarch of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the highest authority over the identification documents, passports, resource allocation, and temple management of all Thai monks.
Kruba: A monk from another sect in Thailand, wearing a dark brown robe, also known as a "master".
Ajarn: Meaning master or teacher. It can refer to a home tutor or a lay Buddhist practitioner. They are allowed to drink alcohol, marry, handle money, etc., but Ajarns of the practitioner level must adhere to the 5 , 8 , or 10 precepts. Those practicing witchcraft are also referred to as Ajarns, but with fewer precepts. (In Thailand, when you first meet a monk and are unsure whether to address him as Luang Phor, Luang Pu, or something else, you might call him Ajarn.)
Lersi: A master who studies the Lersi teachings. According to the true Lersi teachings, one must grow a beard and long hair, practice in seclusion in the wild, and follow the Lersi's standards of study and precepts.