Sak Yant Tattoo in Koh Samui

The Sak Yant Tattoo in Koh Samui is a popular tattoo on the island and throughout the Kingdom of Thailand. The visitors who have a Sak Yant Tattoo are not always aware of the meaning or significance of the Sak Yant. Each Sak Yant represents years of training in symbolism, blessings and magical languages for each design of tattoo. The masters of the Sak Yant Tattoo in Koh Samui pass their wisdom, skill and art to their students preferring not to publicise on the world of the internet. There are many people who believe that the Sak Yant is chosen by the monks. The Thai people choose their own Sak Yant from their training and beliefs.

Sak Yant Tattoo Meaning

The history of the Hah Taew dates back to 1296 in the rule of King Mengrai by a Buddhist monk called Kruba Kam. Originally the script was written in the Khmer language. Throughout the years the script has changed, some of the original lines omitted.
Sak – to tap or to tattoo
Yant – Yantra (instrument or machine)

The Five Rows

1 – clears out unwanted spirits and protects your home
2 – reverses bad fortune and protects against bad constellations
3 – protects from curses and black magic
4 – projects energy for ambition success good luck and fortune
5 – charisma and attraction to the opposite sex. The 4th row boosts the 5th row

There are three common Sak Yant that the majority of visitors choose to adorn their bodies. The common ones are the Hah Taew five line, Gao Yord the Buddha peaks and the Paed Tidt which is eight directions. There are more complex Sak Yant that the serious believers have tattooed.

Sak Yant Tattoo in Koh Samui – Bamboo or Machine

The popular tattoos are tigers, sak yant scripts and the Buddha images. The Thai tattoos have deeply embedded cultural and religious beliefs dating back to ancient times. The two options for tattooing are the electric machine or bamboo stick. The first option is bamboo the traditional art using a bamboo cane. The cane is sharpened to a fine point for tattooing. The second option the electric tattoo machine. The traditional Thais warn against using an electric machine for tattooing believing it leaves the wearer no powers or protection. The monks spend years crafting their tattooing art meditating and reciting mantras called Sutra. The purpose and meanings of tattoos vary from culture to culture around the world.

Tattoo Artist – Sak Yant

The island of Koh Samui is inundated with tattoo establishments offering their art. How to choose a reputable artist can be difficult. Before you have a tattoo chat with the artist, visit the premises. Talk to your tattooist about your preferences. Ask questions about the tattoo procedure and the after care required. A reputable tattooist will have no problem if you change your mind at the last minute. A tattoo is for life not for a vacation.

A recommended tattoo artist for the Sak Yant Tattoo in Koh Samui is the Mayan Tattoo Lamai Beach. Located above the pool area at Kon-Tiki Bar the tattoo shop has fantastic views of the ocean. Two writers for We Love Koh Samui Travel Guide have had tattoos at Mayan Tattoo. The tattoo shop is always open to pop in and have chat.

Have you had a Sak Yant Tattoo in Koh Samui? What tattoo artist have you used in Koh Samui. Do you have a story to share about your tattoo experience? Leave your comments and reviews below.