Life of a Buddhist Saint
Kruba Noi Yanwichai—“the Little Saint”—was a revered Thai Buddhist monk whose life embodied rigorous dedication and ascetic practice.
He pursued awakening and transformed Wat Tham Chetawan into a sacred sanctuary.
Though he lived only 34 years, his legacy endures in the temple he shaped and in those it continues to inspire.
Spiritual Journey
Birth
March 25, 1989
Born as the fourth of five children to Mr. Chai and Mrs. Somjit Namwong in Na Daeng village.
Novice Ordination
March 25, 2002 (Age 12)
Ordained as a novice monk at Wat Na Daeng under Phra Khru Wisut Nanthawit, beginning his monastic journey.
Full Ordination
December 13, 2009 (Age 20)
Ordained as a full monk at Wat Santha, receiving the monastic name "Yanwichayo Phikkhu."
The Great Retreat
July 12, 2014 - October 15, 2017
Entered a 3y3m3d solitary retreat in Tham Chetawan cave, practicing extreme asceticism.
Parinibbana
August 31, 2023 (Age 34)
Passed away peacefully, having predicted his death and left specific instructions for his cremation.
The Three-Year Cave Retreat
The Practice
Jul 12, 2014–Oct 15, 2017, Kruba Noi undertook a solitary retreat in Tham Chetawan cave—exactly three years, three months, and three days.
He lived with extreme austerity, eating one vegetarian meal a day and dedicating himself to intensive Dhamma practice, inspired by his teacher Kruba Boonchum Yanasanwaro.
Spiritual Significance
This retreat was a rare modern example of rigorous Buddhist asceticism, showing exceptional resolve; such prolonged solitude is often read as a sign of advanced realization.
On emerging, Kruba Noi’s standing was further affirmed, deepening veneration and the affectionate epithet Kruba noi “Little Saint.”
Wisdom & Teachings
On Success & Achievement
"Any victory obtained easily, how could it be proud, memorable and worthy of being remembered?"
On Wisdom & Attitude
"Light a candle rather than curse the darkness."
On Love & Compassion
"We can all live without religion, but none of us can live without love and compassion for our fellow beings."
On Self-Discipline
"Conquer your heart, conquer the whole world."
The Final Teaching
Conscious Departure
On August 30, 2023, Kruba Noi summoned his relatives, foretold his death, and left one directive: “Die on which day, cremate on that day”—a final lesson in non-attachment and impermanence.
Testament of Non-Attachment
His will barred washing or redressing the body, any autopsy, and ornate rites; it also forbade fundraising and commercial use of his image—a final lesson in simplicity, humility, and non-attachment.