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The International Journal of the Royal Society of Thailand

Volume XVI-2024 (Special Issue)

The king plays an important role in a nation’s development, though the extent and

scope can vary depending on local traditions, national context, and more importantly,
the king’s capabilities, and the satisfaction of the citizens. The development of the nation

encompasses four key goals: enhancing material wealth, upholding moral values, improving
quality of life, and preserving culture. Some kings may excel in material development while others

may focus more on the other areas. The ability to succeed in all these aspects often depends
on various factors including time spent on the throne.

In the Chakri dynasty, each king contributed to the nation’s progress according to his
abilities and the need of his people. His Holiness Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Kromma

Phraya Pavares Variyalongkorn, the eighth Supreme Patriarch of Siam (1891-1892), once said that
the right king with the right qualities emerged at the crucial moment for the nation. For example,

in the reign of His Majesty King Rama I, the nation required security and the king proved to be
a formidable warrior. While he prioritized military strength to serve the nation, he also endorsed

the law of the Three Seals to maintain society order and supported the revision of Tipitaka to
promote the advancement of Buddhism.

During the reign of His Majesty King Rama II, the nation enjoyed a period of relative
peace. The king was known for his brilliance as a poet as should be and his passion for the art,

which led to a focus on the development of plays and literatures, fine arts, and culture.
He authored numerous plays and literary works that remain popular today including Sang Thong,

Khun Chang Khun Phaen, Inao, and part of Ramayana. The king was also an accomplished
sculptor, creating a statue of the Buddha’s face with his own hands, which now resides as

the main Buddha image in the ordination hall of Wat Arun Ratchawararam (the world famous
temple of dawn). Additionally he carved the central door of the temple at Suthat Thepwararam

Temple.
His Majesty King Rama III faced no significant challenges during his reign and excelled in

trade, particularly with China and neighboring countries. In addition to fostering commerce,
the king strongly supported Buddhism by commissioning the construction of many temples.

He often encouraged his high-ranking officers to earn merit by either building temples or donating
land for such projects. It is said that many temples in Bangkok, either directly or indirectly

owe existence to the King’s patronage. Some of the most well-known ones include Wat Saket
(Golden Mount temple), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha),

Wat Suthat, Wat Chaloem Phrakiat, Wat Thepthidaram, and Wat Rachanatdaram (Temple of
Iron Castle). One poet famously wrote about King Rama III’s deep passion for building temples,

suggesting that anything could be granted after discusssing temples construction. On one

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