Dhamma Wheel

Ajahn Thate Desaraṅsī Archive

A digital collection of the teachings, writings, and life history of Phra Rajanirodharangsee (1902–1994), a revered founding master of the Thai Forest Tradition.

Venerable Ajahn Thate Desaraṅsī
Legacy of Stillness

The Path of a Forest Monk

Venerable Ajahn Thate Desaraṅsī (1902–1994) was one of the foundational pillars of the modern Thai Forest Tradition. As a direct disciple of Ajahn Mun Bhūridatta, his life epitomized radical simplicity, deep meditative stabilization, and compassionate teaching.

For over seventy years in the robes, he traversed remote wildernesses, subdued the mind through isolated practice, and built communities centered around pure monastic discipline (Vinaya).

"Direct mindfulness so that it keeps closely aware of the mind. Let wisdom's only function be to purge the out-wanderings of the heart and return it to a state of complete stillness."

— Ajahn Thate Desaraṅsī, Steps Along the Path

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