Sak yant is a sacred tattoo said to bring protection or good fortune to the wearer. Monk Maha Somchai Satthatiko reminds us that the tattoo only works when the wearer and the maker both have faith and practice the Five Precepts of Buddhism:

1. Do not kill.
2. Do not steal.
3. Do not commit adultery.
4. Do not lie.
5. Do not drink alcohol or do drugs.

The powers are said to wear off over time. So once a year devotees return to the temple to renew their powers and pay their respects in the Wai Khru ceremony (https://youtu.be/cnLtKaFcrg4?t=3m57s).

Thank you: Parinee Buthrasri and Pom Bunsermvicha.
Music: “Transcendence” by Sound Phenomenon Studios.