#bangphra

     Yesterday, not only did I get my first tattoo, but I was taken on a spiritual journey and blessed by a monk. I was given a Sak Yant, which translates to tapping tattoo. This tattoo is not like other conventional tattoos done in the states, it is done with a long sharpened piece of bamboo or in my case metal rod and performed by a master Buddhist monk that taps the design onto the body. The practice itself has been circulating for around 2,000 years and there are several different yants a person can receive. They are believed to hold magic power, good luck and wishes for success. Warriors used to cover their bodies in these tattoos to protect themselves and provide magical powers. 

   I became very interested in the tattoo itself and I never thought I would get a tattoo, however given the spiritual significance and history behind the Sak Yant, I knew it was something I would appreciate my whole life. So, my journey to Wat Bang Phra, the temple that is famous for performing such tattoos, started bright and early at 6am. A friend and I left our room and ventured out to the streets where we saw monks walking around gathering items from the morning markets which I thought was a good sign! We hopped in a cab and were on our way. We finally reached the temple which is located outside of Bangkok, and upon arrival it was kind of confusing where to go. Our cab driver was so helpful and he led us up these stairs through the temple into a room. We waited with a few other people, and waited some more. Finally at 9am, the master monk walked out of this room with an entourage of dogs. They were so cute and I instantly made friends. In Buddhist culture it is known to be kind to all living things, so you often see strays being fed full meals and these dogs at the temple were clearly well taken care of. The monk showered and then we entered the room..

Part of Wat Bang Phra

My new friend that laid next to me the whole time I got my tattoo and comforted me. This was still in the waiting area..

Our offering of incense, a candle, menthol cigarettes and flowers to give to the monk before he performed the yant. When we handed him the offering we all had our hands on the plate and closed our eyes while he said a prayer and blessed the offering.

Next, I was given the 5 sacred lines also called Hah Taew, which generally symbolizes success, reversal of bad karma, protection against black magic and good luck and fortune. 

Don't let that smile fool you, it didn't feel the best. But it was also quick. It took around 20 minutes to complete.

The monk performing the end prayer chant and the placement of the gold paper. Many times you can make a donation to receive this gold sheet outside of temples and after you say a prayer you place it on the Buddha statue. The monk is also wearing a glove because they are not allowed to touch women.