Buddhist Monk & Spiritual Teacher, Thailand
Born in England, Ajahn Jayasāro, was ordained in Thailand’s Thai Forest Tradition under renowned meditation master Ajahn Chah in Northeast Thailand. He served as abbot of Wat Pah Nanachat from 1997–2002 and now lives in a hermitage near Khao Yai. A respected teacher and author, he is known for his Dhamma teachings, publications and work advancing Buddhist-based education in Thailand, including Stillness Flowing, The Life and Teachings of Ajahn Chah. Granted Thai citizenship in 2020, he received Thailand’s Public Diplomacy Award in 2024. In July 2026, King Mahavajiralongkorn bestowed the title Somdetphramahapacharayanmuni, making him one of the youngest—and the first non-Thai-born monk—to receive the Somdej title.