Yantra Tattooing and Other Magical Tattoos in Thailand

Visitors to Thailand may have noticed men displaying Yantra tattooing. What they may not have realized is that they likely met many more people who had invisible tattoos. Magical tattoos in Thailand have a very long history.

Many cultures around the world have used tattoos as part of their traditions. These can be a way to signify status positions within the group or in many instances they are believed to offer supernatural protection. Magical tattoos in Thailand are popular among young men who believe that having these designs can make them invincible or even irresistible to women.

What is Yantra Tattooing?

Yantra tattooing is also referred to as Sak Yant and they are associated with the animist beliefs that were popular in Thailand before the arrival of Buddhism. These magical tattoos are usually created by Maw Pii or spirit doctors, but some Buddhist monks are also willing to apply them. Sak Yant dates back to ancient times and the art is greatly influenced by Khmer culture; in fact the blessings are written in a Khmer script called Khom.

Yantra tattoos are believed to protect those who have them from all physical dangers, illness, and mischief from ghosts. The tattoos will only remain powerful so long as those who wear them follow certain rules; the tattoo will also need to be activated for it to be any use. In the past the ink used in the tattoos would contain such things as chin fat from dead human bodies. Sak Yant/ Yantra tattoos are very popular among Muay Thai fighters and military people.

Invisible Tattoos in Thailand

These are another form of Yantra tattoo only this time they are created by invisible oils so they can't be seen by the human eye. The power of the tattoos is in the blessing itself so actually seeing the design is not the important thing. This has meant magical tattoos in Thailand can be worn by almost anybody.

As well as being well respected for their power there are also those who fear visible tattoos. In recent times they have become associated with bad elements in Thai society such as gang members. This is why the invisible tattoos have become more popular. They promise the wearer all the benefits of protection without any need for social stigma. Anybody can wear an invisible Yantra tattoo without other people ever needing to suspect a thing; business men and politicians can have tattoos without any fear of it hurting their reputations. The popularity of the invisible tattoo has meant that even some of those who believe in the power of tattoos see the visible designs as a bit vulgar and exhibitionist.

Westerners Getting Yantra Tattoos

Many tourists feel the urge to experiment with magical tattoos in Thailand. Like all tattoos these pose health risks if not applied correctly; there is a very high rate of Hepatitis B in the region. Anyone choosing to get Yantra Tattoos should ensure that they are applied hygienically using sterilized needles. It is also worth while bringing along somebody knowledgeable about Thai tattoos to ensure that you are getting what you are paying for. Remember as well that magical tattoos in Thailand don't come with any guarantees.