The Prachao Ha Praong tattoo is a design that embodies spiritual power, protection and profound symbolism that has deep roots in Thai culture, as well as the surrounding area
It is a design in the category known as “Sak Yant” tattoos, often referred to as “Thai traditional tattoos”
The word “Sak” in Thai means “tattoo” or “to tap” and “Yant” is the Thai pronunciation of the Sakskrit word “Yantra”, which are mystical designs often including elements of sacred geometry and often used in meditation practice
To learn more about Sak Yant tattoos, we recommend you check our comprehensive guide here
In this article we are going to delve into the symbolisms and meanings of the Prachao Ha Praong design and discuss why someone may wish to get this beautiful and meaningful design
The words “Prachao Ha Praong” when translated to English means “The Five Buddha Tattoo” or the “Five Sacred Blessings of the Buddha”
These blessings are often chanted by monks when trying to attain a higher level of consciousness through meditation
In English these are pronounced as “Na Mor Put Ta Yar”
While this design isn’t seen as commonly as some of the most popular Sak Yant designs such as the “Hah Taew” or “Gao Yord” it is one of the group of “Yant Kru”, or foundational Sak Yant, designs
The design features give Buddhas, each of which represent one of the 5 cardinal directions, which are North, South, East, West and Center
This is in contrast to much Western mysticism where there are usually 4 cardinal directions, with the “center” being the one that isn’t represented
This is a small but meaningful difference in different mystical traditions, where the “Eastern” will place a high value in the “middle way” or “center” while the “Western” often doesn’t focus so much on it
The Prachao Ha Praong is believed to encompass the guidance, wisdom and protection of the Five Buddhas, which provides the wearer with both spiritual strength and enlightenment
Each of the five Buddhas represented in the Prachao Ha Praong design represents different qualities and virtues
Aksobhya (East)
Often depicted touching the earth, Aksobhya symbolizes the transformation of anger into wisdom. He represents steadfastness and commitment and is associated with the element of water
Ratnasambhava (South)
Ratnasambhava, typically shown in a giving gesture, symbolizes the transformation of pride into the wisdom of equality. He is associated with the element of earth and embodies generosity
Amitabha (West)
Known as the Buddha of Infinite Light, Amitabha symbolizes the transformation of desire into discernment. He is associated with the element of fire and represents pure perception
Amoghasiddhi (North)
Traditionally shown in a fearless gesture, Amoghasiddhi symbolizes the transformation of jealousy into the wisdom of accomplishment. He is associated with the element of air and embodies the power of unobstructed success
Vairocana (Center)
Often depicted as sitting on a lotus, Vairocana symbolizes the transformation of ignorance into the wisdom of reality as it truly is. He is associated with the element of space or ether and represents spiritual awakening and enlightenment
The sum of these 5 Buddhas represent a powerful commitment to spiritual growth and inner peace
A Prachao Ha Praong tattoo represents a testament to the wearer’s spiritual journey and their connection to the rich symbolism and cultural importance of Thai (Theravada) Buddhism
Someone may choose the Prachao Ha Praong design to express their own devotion to Buddhist principles, their desire for guidance and protection on life’s path or wish for spiritual growth
By choosing the design, the wearer could be aligning themselves with the wisdom and blessings of the Five Buddhas, opening themselves up to the transformative power behind this ancient artform
But, as with all Sak Yant designs, it’s really up to the wearer to decide what it symbolizes
If it’s simply a reminder of time spent in Thailand, or a meaningful visit to a temple, that’s absolutely fine!
The Prachao Ha Praong tattoo offers a unique and powerful way to embrace the spiritual and cultural significance of Thai sacred tattoos
By choosing the Prachao Ha Praong design, the wearer connects with the wisdom, guidance, and protection of the Five Buddhas, while also honoring the rich cultural heritage of Thailand
It’s important that you choose a safe, hygienic and high quality environment to do your Sak Yant tattoo
The only thing that you want to have for life after the tattoo is finished, is the tattoo itself!
While it can be tempting to partake in “ceremonies” or “blessings”, there are several risks and drawbacks you should consider first
We talk about this further here
At ALL DAY Tattoo we are one of the only fully licensed tattoo studios in Thailand, complying with the highest standards of hygiene
All of our inks are branded, high quality FDA approved inks imported from the USA
We have fluent English speaking staff on hand at all times to guide you through the process and ensure you are safe, comfortable and aware of what is happening
If you’re interested in getting a Prachao Ha Praong tattoo while in Bangkok, reach out to our friendly staff using any of the methods below and they’ll be happy to assist you
