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Each
session of tattooing usually takes
little more than 10 to 15 minutes,
though it is a lengthy process in that
the tattooed will return time and again
for more complex designs to be
completed, or to have extra or
accompanying ones added
Other
than choosing the sacred designs the
monk must also organize a sacred
ceremony to worship their teachers prior
to the actual process of tattooing.
The form
of a tattooing session illustrates the
quasi-religious nature of the practice.
The tattoo will bring the tattooist a
small offering, as is done with monks,
as well as the tattoo fee, usually no
more than THB 100 or so. He will make
the traditional wai greeting while
kneeling reverently in front of the
master, a position maintained throughout
the tattooing.
During
the tattoo ceremony the monk may recite
sacred spells to transfer magic power
into the tattoo. It is important that
the subject does not talk during this
time because it would interrupt the
monk’s concentration and decrease the
power of the tattoo.
The most
important stage of the session is at the
end. Tattoos in themselves have no
power, no effectiveness in giving
protection; they must be activated, by
the tattooist, hence the awe in which
the best masters are held.
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