Sak Yant – Magical Tattoos in Thailand

Author: kickthegrind Become a contributor

A Yant is a sacred geometrical design. These symbols are seen everywhere in South East Asia, and are truly believed to bestow protective charms onto those who have them in their possession. A Sak Yant is protective symbol etched into the skin. “Sak” means “to tap”, and the Bhuddist Monks who give these enchantments literally poke-in these designs with a meter long metal rod. To make things even more extreme, what the ink contains is entirely up to the monk that is giving you the enchantment. He chooses what magical ingredients he would like to work with. I’ve heard rumours of snake venom, chin fat of the deceased, and charcoal from burned enemies.

I don’t know what was in the ink of my tattoo, but what I do know is that I’m supposedly now blessed with good luck and safety (Generally a pretty great thing to have). The truly devoted can have their entire backs covered with spells protecting them from everything; bullets to the bad words of others.

Also… Did I mention that it only costs about 1 USD per Tattoo? These monks definitely aren’t in it for the money, nor the street cred. Each follows the teachings of Bhudda, that means no alcohol, and no touching women.

Yantra tattooing saw a glimpse of mainstream society when Angelina Jolie received 2 while filming “Tomb Raider” in South East Asia. Also, the next time you watch UFC or a Muy Thai fight, look at the fighter’s backs. Quite often you’ll see a few Sak Yants to make them “As slippery as an eel” or “As strong as an ape”.

This was easily one of the most incredible (and a little bit painful) experiences I’ve had travelling. If you didn’t notice in the video, I went back twice for more enchantments.

(For those interested: My tattoos were done by Luang Pi Nunn at Wat Bang Phra near Bangkok, Thailand)