Sayadaw Bone Phayar Gyi Pauk Sein
The narrative surrounding Bone Phayar Gyi Pauk Sein, a revered Sayadaw (monk) in Myanmar, encapsulates an intriguing blend of mysticism, history, and spirituality, evoking a deep curiosity and reverence among those who learn of his life and the miraculous occurrences attributed to him. Thanks to the efforts of Nyein Nyein Chan Chan and Ashin Sarana, we bring you the following short biography.
Sayadaw Bone Phayar Gyi's funeral marked the beginning of an extraordinary tale. As his body was carried over a pit for burial, it inexplicably became as light as cotton, an occurrence that preluded a miraculous "jewelry rain" filling the pit, witnessed by the many attendees. This event alone suggests to some followers a departure from the mundane, indicating the Sayadaw's significant spiritual stature. Following this, a stupa was erected over the site, forever marking the place of his burial and providing a focal point for veneration and reflection.
The Sayadaw's life was shrouded in mystery and remarkable tales that suggested an existence intertwined with the spiritual and historical fabric of Myanmar. He was known to speak of past Myanmar kings as if he had been their contemporary, hinting at an age far exceeding the normal human lifespan. His refusal to divulge information about his parents, alongside his scolding of those who sought such earthly knowledge, further cloaked his life in mystery, focusing instead on the pursuit of spiritual wisdom.
Notably, Sayadaw Bone Phayar Gyi was believed to be in possession of psychic powers and a profound wisdom that transcended the ordinary. His connection with historical figures such as Weikzars Bo Min Gaunga and Bo Bo Aung, and possibly being the venerable Itzagona (Ajjagona), underscores a lineage of spiritual power and knowledge. The Sayadaw's admonitions to focus on the essential teachings of the Buddha rather than on human curiosities underscore his commitment to the path of enlightenment and the dispensation of wisdom that transcends mere factual knowledge.
His physical appearance, particularly the distinctive condition of his eyes, led to speculation that he might have been the monk Shin Azzagona from the Bagan period, who, after losing his eyes to a king's decree, supposedly replaced them with those of a cow and a goat to regain his vision. This legend not only illustrates the Sayadaw's resilience and spiritual prowess but also ties him to a historical narrative of suffering, sacrifice, and ultimately, transcendence. The Sayadaw always wore spectacles, thus effectively covering his eyes from other people's sight. His students, therefore, speculated that he may be the monk Shin Azzagona from Bagan period, a monk of two eyes of different sizes. By his spectacles, he would make sure people did not recognize him.
The widespread belief in Sayadaw Bone Phayar Gyi's identity as a Weizza (a type of Burmese semi-divine figure believed to possess magical powers) is further cemented by tales of his survival against attacks by rebels, where neither bullets nor axes could harm him. This, along with his ability to command an axe to chase away his attackers, portrays him as a figure of power, revered and feared.
One of the most compelling stories related to Sayadaw Bone Phayar Gyi involves the resurrection of a girl bitten by a snake. Through a ritual involving milk and a bronze cup, accompanied by the chanting of mantras and the summoning of the offending snake to remove its venom, the Sayadaw not only demonstrated his mastery over life and death but also his compassion and the deep interconnection between all living beings.
This narrative tapestry presents Sayadaw Bone Phayar Gyi as a figure of immense spiritual depth, whose life and miracles continue to inspire awe and devotion. His story, a blend of historical depth, mystical power, and spiritual wisdom, offers a window into the rich spiritual traditions of Myanmar, inviting reflection on the nature of enlightenment, the power of faith, and the enduring mystery of those who walk the path of the Weizza.
