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Home News English Monk Achieves High Rank in Thailand's Buddhist Community

English Monk Achieves High Rank in Thailand's Buddhist Community

Sep 18, 2026
61 min
16
Sep 18, 2026 07:31
Meet the Englishman who became Thailand's top foreign monk

## Journey from England to Thailand

Shaun Chiverton, originally from the Isle of Wight in England, has become a prominent figure in Thailand's Buddhist community. Known as Ajahn Jayasaro, he is the first non-Thai to reach the rank of Somdet Phra Rachakhana, the second-highest position in the Thai monastic hierarchy.

## Path to Enlightenment

Chiverton's spiritual journey began nearly 50 years ago when he traveled to India seeking answers about life and suffering. This quest eventually led him to Thailand, where he embraced the Theravada Buddhist forest tradition and became a monk.

## Life of Seclusion and Teaching

For the past two decades, Ajahn Jayasaro has lived a secluded life near the Khao Yai mountains. During this time, he has written books, led meditation retreats, and shared his teachings online. His YouTube channel has attracted over 100,000 subscribers, focusing on themes like compassion, discipline, and detachment from materialism.

## Recognition and Future Plans

In 2020, Jayasaro was granted Thai citizenship by royal decree and has since received multiple royal promotions. Reflecting on his achievements, he expresses gratitude for his chosen path. He is currently working on an English-language YouTube series about the Buddha's era, aiming to broaden the reach of ancient Buddhist teachings.

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