CHIANG RAI – Ajarn Chalermchai Kositpipat, the creator of Wat Rong Khun (White Temple) in Chiang Rai, vented his frustration after being tricked by a monk, even though he always believed he was hard to deceive.
He openly shared that, while there are many good monks, it is often difficult to find them. From now on, he plans to focus on following Buddhist teachings and will no longer put his trust in monks.
On September 1st, Chalermchai Kositpipat spoke openly in a video posted on his student’s Facebook page. He addressed that although there are monks who live honestly and follow the teachings, there are also many whose behaviour is disappointing, which deeply affects the minds of Buddhists.
He admitted he himself got fooled by a monk, something he never expected to happen.
Chalermchai explained that, today, with rain falling outside, he wanted to talk openly about monks. He mentioned how unruly behaviour among monks is nothing new and has been an issue since the time of the Buddha. Despite this, Buddhism has survived until today. Throughout his life, he has seen monks who misbehave, although they are fewer in number.
Good monks are out there, but they are hard to come by.
He emphasized that the teachings of the Buddha are unmatched and reminded everyone to hold on to the teachings, not to individuals. Monks should follow precepts and set an example for others to look up to, but sadly, plenty join the monkhood just to make a living.
This has caused real hardship for Buddhists who expect something higher.
Chalermchai admitted that he usually isn’t fooled easily, but even he couldn’t avoid being deceived by a monk this time. He said it left him angry and frustrated, but his faith in Buddhism remains unshaken. He stays true to the teachings of the Buddha and now relies on the Dhamma instead of the monks themselves.
When asked if he still believes in monks, he was honest. He tries to be careful and chooses whom to trust, but he still ends up making a mistake. However, he doesn’t let this shake his faith because what truly matters is the Dhamma.
Bad teachers or doctors exist in every field, but this doesn’t mean people should give up on education or healthcare. Instead of putting hope in individuals, staying focused on the Buddha’s teachings is what matters most. For him, the Dhamma is the greatest refuge.
Ajarn Chalermchai Kositpipat: A Visionary Thai Artist
Ajarn Chalermchai K Sall Kositpipat, born February 15, 1955, in Chiang Rai, Thailand, is a celebrated visual artist renowned for blending traditional Thai Buddhist art with contemporary elements. A graduate of Silpakorn University (1977), he gained fame for his vibrant murals and paintings, notably at Wat Buddhapadipa in London.
His most iconic work, Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple), began in 1997, is a dazzling Buddhist sanctuary reflecting purity and wisdom through its white facade and mirrored chips. Despite initial criticism for its modern style, the temple has become a global attraction, showcasing its innovative vision.
Chalermchai’s works, like Food Offering to Monks (sold for $59,375 in 2018), blend Thai heritage with pop culture, earning him the National Artist title in 2011. His outspoken personality and refusal of government funding highlight his independence.
In 2022, at 65, he announced his retirement from art to travel by motorcycle, later relinquishing his National Artist status in 2025 to live as an “ordinary citizen.” His latest project, the Dibba Yana Chitta river.
The Dibba Yana Chitta isn’t a river, but rather a luxury riverboat on the Mae Ping River in Chiang Mai. Designed by Ajarn Chalermchai, it offers guests a cultural and culinary experience with a traditional Thai dinner, live music, and cultural performances, all while cruising the Mae Ping
