Yantra Tattooing - Types and Designs

Types and Designs

There are many traditional types and designs of Yantra Tattoos, but some of the most well-known and popular include:

• Ongk Phra (Thai: องค์พระ translation: Buddha's body) - one of the most commonly used elements in Yantra tattooing but can also be a more complex standalone design. Meant to provide insight, guidance, illumination, etc.
• Ha Thaew (Thai: ห้าแถว translation: five rows) - one of the most common Yantra designs for women in Thailand but also used for men. Typically tattooed on the back left shoulder. Each of the five lines relates to a different blessing for success and good luck.
• Kao Yord (Thai: เก้ายอด translation: nine spires) - typically tattooed on the center top of the back in various sizes and levels of complexity. Simple version pictured at the top of this article.
• Sii Yord (Thai: สี่ยอด translation: four spires) - to influence the feelings or actions of others and protect the bearer.
• Paed Tidt Thai: แปดทิศ(translation: eight points) - represents protection in the eight directions of the universe. Round shape; typically tattooed on the center of the back. Pictured in gallery below.
• Sip Tidt Thai: สิบทิศ(translation: ten points) - a version of Paed Tidt but protects in ten directions instead of eight.
• Mahaniyom (Thai: มหานิยม (translation: great preference) - to grant the bearer favor in the eyes of others. Round shape; typically placed on the back right shoulder.
• Yord Mongkut (Thai: ยอดมงกุฎ translation: spired crown) - for good fortune and protection in battle. Round shape; typically tattooed on the top of the head.
• Bpanjamukhee (translation: five Deva faces) - intended to ward off illness and danger.
• Suea (Thai: เสือ translation: tiger) - typically depicts twin tigers. Represents power and authority.