via The Thaiger, 05 November 2023: Wat Khod Thim Tharam in Rayong, Thailand, has recently unveiled a rare, over 300-year-old book from the late Ayutthaya period, one of only two known copies in the world. This ancient book, containing literary works like Jantakrop, Ramakian, Phra Malai, and Ayutthaya-period Thai law, is usually inaccessible to the public to prevent damage. The temple, which also houses a chapel with unique wall paintings, is known for its collection of antique documents, including folk tales, laws, and scriptures from the Ayutthaya to early Rattanakosin eras, collected by a former Rayong governor.
An over 300 year old ancient book, one of only two known copies in the world, has been unveiled at a famous temple in Rayong. The treasure, which was collected by a local governor before it could be sold, is priceless.
Today at 9am, Wat Khod Thim Tharam in Mueang Rayong opened up its treasure trove for public viewing. The temple’s rare antiquities are not usually accessible to the public. Phra Chaiyayos Akkhanuchano, the assistant abbot, revealed that there are only two copies of this ancient book from the late Ayutthaya period in the world. One is in Switzerland, and the other is right here in Wat Khod Thim Tharam.
The book at Wat Khod Thim Tharam contains stories of literary works such as Jantakrop, Ramakian, Phra Malai, and Thai law from the Ayutthaya period, as well as various other scriptures. Usually, this book is not open to the public for fear of damage. It was more worn than it is now, but the Department of Fine Arts came to help restore it. The temple has preserved it well as it is an invaluable ancient treasure.
Source: Rare ancient book unveiled at Rayong temple to public gaze | Thaiger