Hah Taew
Sak Yant Studio Breda · Authentic Thai Spiritual Tattoo
The Thai Sacred Tattoo Meaning, Magic & Spiritual Protection
The Thai sacred tattoo - Sak Yant - is more than ink. It is an ancient spiritual tradition that bestows protection, strength and fortune. A connection to the spiritual world that can profoundly change your life.
The Meaning and Magic of the Thai Sacred Tattoo
A Sak Yant is spiritual protection and a source of strength and fortune.
These tattoos are considered a way to connect with the spiritual world and to receive spiritual guidance and protection. They are rooted in a tradition more than 2,000 years old, originating from Buddhism and Brahmanism in Thailand.
What makes a Thai sacred tattoo so special?
What distinguishes a Sak Yant from an ordinary tattoo is the spiritual intention and the ceremony surrounding it. Each design is built from sacred geometry, Pali mantras and Yantra symbols. They are not decorations - they are spiritual instruments containing specific powers.
The tattoo is applied with a traditional bamboo needle (mai sak) or metal needle while the master whispers or chants mantras. Afterwards follows a sacred blessing that "activates" the spiritual power. Without this ceremony it is only ink - no protection, no magic.
What protection does a Sak Yant offer?
Each Sak Yant has a specific spiritual function. The most requested protections are:
• Protection against evil and negative energy
• Attracting luck, prosperity and success
• Spiritual guidance and wisdom
• Physical protection and invulnerability
• Charisma, attraction and influence
The design that suits you depends on your personal intention and life stage. Master Silas advises each individual based on a conversation.
The spiritual connection
A Sak Yant creates a living connection between the wearer and the spiritual world. Monks and Ajarns believe the power of the tattoo remains active as long as the wearer upholds certain behavioural rules - the "Taboos" or Katha. These rules are designed to keep the wearer morally and spiritually pure.
Want to know more about specific designs and their spiritual meaning? Browse our Sak Yant designs or read more on the
About Sak Yant page.
About the MasterSilas van Gemert -
Silas van Gemert -
A Life Devoted to Sak Yant
Silas van Gemert grew up in Klundert, in the Dutch province of Brabant. In 2010 his search for meaning took him to Thailand, where for years he submitted to the discipline of Buddhist monks. There he came to truly understand the sacred art of Sak Yant: the forms, the language, the blessings and the spiritual power behind them.
He received the sacred blessing that grants him the right to place Sak Yant tattoos. His travels also took him to the world's oldest tattoo shop in Israel, the Brazilian jungle, and India, Nepal and Tibet.
Today Silas is one of Europe's leading Sak Yant masters, working from his studio in the heart of Breda.
A Sak Yant is not just a tattoo. It is an ancient spiritual tradition that can change your life. Silas has guided more than 500 people from across Europe through this unique ritual.
Our Philosophy
With more than 15 years of experience, he has mastered the traditional hand-poke technique to perfection. This is not a style you simply learn - it is a craft that requires years of dedication, discipline and respect for tradition.
Meet the master
Popular Sak Yant Designs
Paed Tidt
Eight Directions
Protection
Suea Koo
Twin Tigers
Strength & Courage
Gao Yord
Nine Peaks
Protection
Na Metta
Love & Compassion
Love & Attraction
Hanuman
The Monkey God
Strength & Courage
Ong Phra
Buddha Image
Wisdom & Insight
Kroh Petch
Diamond Armor
Protection
Jorakhe Bak
Crocodile Back
Strength & Courage
Maha Amnaj
Great Authority
Success & Career
Phra Net
Buddha Eye
Wisdom & Insight
Singha (Phaya Rachasi)
The Sacred Lion
Strength & Courage
Ganesha
Luck & Prosperity
Suea Phen
The Leaping Tiger
Strength & Courage
Unalome (Geometric)
Geometric Unalome
Wisdom & Insight
Hanuman & Naga
Strength & Courage
Hong
Hong Birds
Love & Attraction
Bua Hong
Lotus & Hong
Love & Attraction
Bua Katha
Lotus with Vertical Mantra
Wisdom & Insight
Bua Hah Taew
Lotus with Five Mantra Lines
Protection
Mang Korn
Mang Korn (Thai Dragon)
Strength & Courage
Tao
Turtle
Health
Unalome
Wisdom & Insight
Garuda (Krut)
Garuda, the Divine Eagle with Sacred Flag
Strength & Courage
Mang Korn
The Coiled Dragon
Protection
Singha
The Guardian Lion
Strength & Courage
Hanuman
Hanuman Riding the Singha
Strength & Courage
Singha
Singha with Spiral Energy
Strength & Courage
Suea
The Tiger
Strength & Courage
Tao
Turtle with Hanuman Guardian
Protection
Hua Suea
Tiger Head (Hua Suea)
Strength & Courage
Hanuman
Seated Hanuman Warrior
Strength & Courage
Hanuman
Hanuman with the Victory Banner
Strength & Courage
Yak
The Giant Guardian
Protection
Yantra
Geometric Yantra with Temple Flags
Protection
Suea
Leaping Tiger
Strength & Courage
Suea
The Prowling Tiger
Strength & Courage
Yant Guardian
Symmetrical star guardian yantra
ProtectionPhra Pikanet
Phra Pikanet, the elephant deity (Ganesha)
Success & Career
Krut
Winged Guardian
Protection
Yantra Khom
Khom Mantra Panels
Wisdom & Insight
Yantra
Grand Geometric Yantra with Temple Spire
Protection
Mang Korn
Twin Dragon with Singha
Strength & CourageWhat clients sayRated by 127 clients
Rated by 127 clients
Average of 5.0
N
A top experience from start to finish. Silas takes his time, explains everything clearly and delivers craftsmanship of the highest level. The atmosphere is relaxed, professional and respectful of the Sak Yant tradition. (Translated from Dutch)
FM
Had a super relaxed afternoon at Silas's. I came in with a different idea, but by looking and thinking it over together we ended up here. Silas gave me the feeling that he was looking for a design that fit my story. Really pleased with it. The way he tattoos and the speed of it were good too. Nicer than the machine. (Translated from Dutch)
B
I rarely write reviews, but for this I am happy to make an exception. Silas really takes his time, listens, and approaches everything with visible respect for the tradition. The atmosphere in the shop is great. (Translated from Dutch)
MO
I had my very first tattoo done at Silas's and I am really happy with the result! The atmosphere was very pleasant and relaxed, Silas took the time to think along with me and I felt completely at ease. (Translated from Dutch)
IW
Second time getting a tattoo at Silas's. Really a great experience! There is a nice atmosphere, Silas takes his time, stays calm and genuinely puts you at ease. We sat down together to look at what would suit me. All in all I did not just go home with a beautiful tattoo, but with a really good experience and afternoon as well. (Translated from Dutch)
JW
I wanted to get a Mercedes star, but Silas pointed out that a mandala suited me better. We had a great chat about life, vans and Belgian fries. What a nice guy, he did a beautiful tattoo and he was absolutely right. (Translated from Dutch)
WJ
Had two sessions with Silas this Thursday and Friday. He really thinks along with you and takes all the time you need. He is genuinely enthusiastic about the tattoos he does himself, and that is great as a customer! (Translated from Dutch)
BD
Last week I had the first of four sessions at Silas's for my Sak Yant tattoo, and I am already very happy with it. (Translated from Dutch)
N
A top experience from start to finish. Silas takes his time, explains everything clearly and delivers craftsmanship of the highest level. The atmosphere is relaxed, professional and respectful of the Sak Yant tradition. (Translated from Dutch)
FM
Had a super relaxed afternoon at Silas's. I came in with a different idea, but by looking and thinking it over together we ended up here. Silas gave me the feeling that he was looking for a design that fit my story. Really pleased with it. The way he tattoos and the speed of it were good too. Nicer than the machine. (Translated from Dutch)
B
I rarely write reviews, but for this I am happy to make an exception. Silas really takes his time, listens, and approaches everything with visible respect for the tradition. The atmosphere in the shop is great. (Translated from Dutch)
MO
I had my very first tattoo done at Silas's and I am really happy with the result! The atmosphere was very pleasant and relaxed, Silas took the time to think along with me and I felt completely at ease. (Translated from Dutch)
IW
Second time getting a tattoo at Silas's. Really a great experience! There is a nice atmosphere, Silas takes his time, stays calm and genuinely puts you at ease. We sat down together to look at what would suit me. All in all I did not just go home with a beautiful tattoo, but with a really good experience and afternoon as well. (Translated from Dutch)
JW
I wanted to get a Mercedes star, but Silas pointed out that a mandala suited me better. We had a great chat about life, vans and Belgian fries. What a nice guy, he did a beautiful tattoo and he was absolutely right. (Translated from Dutch)
WJ
Had two sessions with Silas this Thursday and Friday. He really thinks along with you and takes all the time you need. He is genuinely enthusiastic about the tattoos he does himself, and that is great as a customer! (Translated from Dutch)
BD
Last week I had the first of four sessions at Silas's for my Sak Yant tattoo, and I am already very happy with it. (Translated from Dutch)
BD
Last week I had the first of four sessions at Silas's for my Sak Yant tattoo, and I am already very happy with it. (Translated from Dutch)
WJ
Had two sessions with Silas this Thursday and Friday. He really thinks along with you and takes all the time you need. He is genuinely enthusiastic about the tattoos he does himself, and that is great as a customer! (Translated from Dutch)
JW
I wanted to get a Mercedes star, but Silas pointed out that a mandala suited me better. We had a great chat about life, vans and Belgian fries. What a nice guy, he did a beautiful tattoo and he was absolutely right. (Translated from Dutch)
IW
Second time getting a tattoo at Silas's. Really a great experience! There is a nice atmosphere, Silas takes his time, stays calm and genuinely puts you at ease. We sat down together to look at what would suit me. All in all I did not just go home with a beautiful tattoo, but with a really good experience and afternoon as well. (Translated from Dutch)
MO
I had my very first tattoo done at Silas's and I am really happy with the result! The atmosphere was very pleasant and relaxed, Silas took the time to think along with me and I felt completely at ease. (Translated from Dutch)
B
I rarely write reviews, but for this I am happy to make an exception. Silas really takes his time, listens, and approaches everything with visible respect for the tradition. The atmosphere in the shop is great. (Translated from Dutch)
FM
Had a super relaxed afternoon at Silas's. I came in with a different idea, but by looking and thinking it over together we ended up here. Silas gave me the feeling that he was looking for a design that fit my story. Really pleased with it. The way he tattoos and the speed of it were good too. Nicer than the machine. (Translated from Dutch)
N
A top experience from start to finish. Silas takes his time, explains everything clearly and delivers craftsmanship of the highest level. The atmosphere is relaxed, professional and respectful of the Sak Yant tradition. (Translated from Dutch)
BD
Last week I had the first of four sessions at Silas's for my Sak Yant tattoo, and I am already very happy with it. (Translated from Dutch)
WJ
Had two sessions with Silas this Thursday and Friday. He really thinks along with you and takes all the time you need. He is genuinely enthusiastic about the tattoos he does himself, and that is great as a customer! (Translated from Dutch)
JW
I wanted to get a Mercedes star, but Silas pointed out that a mandala suited me better. We had a great chat about life, vans and Belgian fries. What a nice guy, he did a beautiful tattoo and he was absolutely right. (Translated from Dutch)
IW
Second time getting a tattoo at Silas's. Really a great experience! There is a nice atmosphere, Silas takes his time, stays calm and genuinely puts you at ease. We sat down together to look at what would suit me. All in all I did not just go home with a beautiful tattoo, but with a really good experience and afternoon as well. (Translated from Dutch)
MO
I had my very first tattoo done at Silas's and I am really happy with the result! The atmosphere was very pleasant and relaxed, Silas took the time to think along with me and I felt completely at ease. (Translated from Dutch)
B
I rarely write reviews, but for this I am happy to make an exception. Silas really takes his time, listens, and approaches everything with visible respect for the tradition. The atmosphere in the shop is great. (Translated from Dutch)
FM
Had a super relaxed afternoon at Silas's. I came in with a different idea, but by looking and thinking it over together we ended up here. Silas gave me the feeling that he was looking for a design that fit my story. Really pleased with it. The way he tattoos and the speed of it were good too. Nicer than the machine. (Translated from Dutch)
N
A top experience from start to finish. Silas takes his time, explains everything clearly and delivers craftsmanship of the highest level. The atmosphere is relaxed, professional and respectful of the Sak Yant tradition. (Translated from Dutch)
Your spiritual journey
From curiosity toyour sacred tattoo
01
First contact
A brief message via WhatsApp or the contact form is enough. Tell us what you're looking for and which Sak Yant design resonates with you. Silas reads every request personally.
02
🤝
Intake conversation - does the energy align?
Every Sak Yant begins with a personal conversation - in the studio or online if you travel from afar. Silas senses whether the energy aligns and whether there's a genuine connection. Not a formality: without that mutual bond, the Sak Yant doesn't proceed. For him, indispensable.
03
Sak Yant by appointment
In our studio in Breda. Silas van Gemert, one of the few certified Sak Yant masters in Europe, places your Sak Yant with the traditional bamboo needle. Calm, personal, attuned to your intention. No routine - every Sak Yant is unique.
04
Aftercare & Silas's own balm
Afterwards, personal guidance on healing and care. You take home the balm Silas blends himself for optimal healing. We remain available via WhatsApp for all questions about aftercare, meaning and protection.
Frequently asked questions about Thai sacred tattoos
Is a Sak Yant truly spiritual or is it symbolic?
For those who embrace the tradition it is truly spiritually active. The power is rooted in belief, the intention of the wearer, and the authenticity of the ceremony. Master Silas trained under monks in Thailand for years - he does not just apply a tattoo, he activates a spiritual protection.
Which Thai sacred tattoo suits me?
This is very personal and depends on your intention. Are you seeking protection? Strength? Fortune? Love? Each design has a specific function. Master Silas is happy to discuss this personally in a consultation before the session.
Do I need to be Buddhist to receive a Sak Yant?
No. Sak Yant is open to everyone, regardless of religion or background. However, it is important to respect the tradition and commit to the spiritual intention. Silas guides you through this.
What are the "katha" or behavioural rules after a Sak Yant?
Each design has its own katha - spiritual behavioural guidelines that help preserve the power of the tattoo. Silas explains these fully during the session. They generally focus on respect, moderation and moral integrity.
How long does the ceremony take?
How long a full Sak Yant session takes, including the preparatory conversation, the tattoo itself and the closing blessing, depends on the design and the size. Plan a relaxed day for your visit to Breda.
Is the tattoo painful?
The traditional bamboo needle technique is for many people less painful than a tattoo machine. Pain experience varies per person and body location. The spiritual focus during the ceremony helps many through the session.
Get in touchBook your
Book your
Sak Yant session
- AdresTorenstraat 23-a, 4811 XV Breda
- Telefoon / WhatsApp+31 6 41603784
- OpeningstijdenBy appointment
Send a message
We respond within 24 hours.