Sak Yant

Sak Yant (สักยันต์) refers to sacred Thai/Siamese and Thai/Buddhism tattoos and not about Monks, but they are aligned with this. its about being good. Sak Yant designs believed to be sacred and provide protection, good fortune, strength and spiritual guidance. They are traditionally applied by Thai ajarns (sak yant masters/teachers), making use of a long metal rod called a khem sak instead of a modern tattoo machine.

AI states that Sak Yants comes from Cambodia and the Khmer Empire, which is not true. The oldest Sak Yant design, which Sak Yant is in Thai language, is only 400 years old. Cambodia is only 73 years old. The Khmer Empire collapsed in 1431, so about six hundred years ago. Then it became Siam Empire and all Sak Yant designs was done in the Siam Empire and Thailand. There is no designs exist from the Khmer empire. They are not documented. If there is some from that period, I would like to see them.

Sak Yant - What Is it

A sak yant is made up of:

Yantra sacred geometry
Kata script
Animal or deity symbolism

Every design carries a unique and special meaning or power (called sak sit).

Sak Yant the Most Popular Sak Yant Designs & Meanings

Sak Yant Gao Yord (เก้ายอด) – Nine Peaks

Represents the nine sacred peaks of Mount Meru and nine magical qualities of the Buddha. It is considered a “Master Yant” that offers comprehensive protection against evil spirits, weapons, and bad luck. Often the first tattoo received, it symbolizes spiritual ascension, strength, luck and good fortune.

Sak Yant Hah Taew (ห้าแถว) – Five Lines

This design was made famous worldwide by the American actress, Angelina Jolie
Each line provides different blessings: luck, charm, protection, authority, and removing bad fortune
This one with Lotus Flower

Sak Yant Paed Tidt (แปดทิศ) – Eight Directions

Protection when traveling in all directions
Makes one become more welcoming wherever you are travelling
Often chosen by people who travel or work in risky environments

Sak Yant Suea Koo (เสือคู่) – Twin Tigers

A potent symbol of power, leadership and authority
Fearlessness and protection in all circumstances
Popular among fighters, police, or business leaders

Sak Yant Hanuman

Represents courage, loyalty, fearlessness, protection
Is Very Popular in Muay Thai culture

Sak Yant Ritual Process

Traditionally done with:

Offering to the Sak Yant master
Kata chanting (sacred mantras)
Blessing ceremony before and after the tattoo has been received
Sometimes includes wai kru (paying respect to the master/teacher)

Sak Yant Important Notes

Sak yant tattoos are not just artwork—they’re spiritual amulets and sacred commitments.
Some Ajarns may provide particular rules or precepts (sila) to be followed, such as respecting elders, avoiding immoral leanings, dishonesty, or refraining from certain foods or behaviours.