The Meaning and Power of the Sak Yant Sroi Sangwan (ยันต์สร้อยสังวาลย์), sometimes transliterated as the Soy Sangwarn.
The Sak Yant Sroi Sangwan — known in English as the sacred necklace or ornamental chain — is one of the most elegant and powerful protective designs in Thai spiritual tattooing. At first glance, it looks like a delicate chain draped across the chest. But for those who wear it, it’s so much more than decoration. It’s a spiritual tool meant to protect, attract good fortune, elevate one’s status, and give the wearer the quiet strength to move through life with confidence and grace.
Throughout history, this Yant has been especially popular with warriors and fighters. In ancient times, those who went into battle favored the Sroi Sangwan because it was believed to protect the most vulnerable parts of the body — the neck and head. These areas are not only physically exposed but also considered spiritually delicate, and the Yant was seen as a kind of invisible armor, a protective chain that would guard them against harm, misfortune, and bad energy.
Today, people are drawn to it for similar reasons. Whether facing challenges in business, life transitions, or leadership roles, wearing the Sroi Sangwan feels like having a steady, protective presence surrounding you — a constant reminder that you are supported and watched over.
The beauty of this Yant lies not only in its appearance but also in what it represents. The chain motif is a symbol of unbroken strength and connection, linking the wearer to spiritual protection and higher guidance. The design flows upward, symbolizing growth and rising fortune. And the ancient Khmer script woven through the design carries sacred mantras that quietly work to attract wealth, respect, and balance.
The Sroi Sangwan is associated with leadership and status. In the past, ornamental chains were worn by royalty, generals, and high-ranking figures. To wear the Yant version is to carry that same energy — not to boast, but to move through the world with dignity, quiet authority, and the confidence that comes from being protected and spiritually supported.
Interestingly, there isn’t just one single Sroi Sangwan design. There are a few different variations. Some are crafted purely for aesthetic reasons, with more delicate lines, more elaborate chain-like patterns, or more geometric balance to suit the wearer’s body shape. Others are minutely adjusted by the Ajarn (the master who creates the Yant) to emphasize particular qualities. One design might lean a little more towards protection and personal strength, another might lean more towards attracting wealth and respect, and another might emphasize leadership and public standing. While all these designs are essentially the same in their core energy, these small variations allow the wearer to carry a version of the Yant that best aligns with their personal goals and energy.
But it’s not just about receiving blessings; it’s also about living up to them. This Yant asks the wearer to live with integrity. It’s believed that those who live honestly and treat others with kindness will find that the Yant continues to protect and lift them higher. But if someone acts selfishly, greedily, or dishonestly, the power of the Yant fades. The energy is reciprocal — it stays strong when the wearer stays true.
Living with the Sroi Sangwan means doing your best to be honest in your dealings, showing respect to those who guide and support you, staying humble even as you succeed, and sharing your good fortune with others. It’s not about being perfect, but about striving to carry yourself with care and generosity.
One of the most powerful ways to keep the power of this Yant alive is through its Khata — the sacred chant that accompanies it. Reciting this chant is like recharging the energy of the Yant. It doesn’t need to be done every day, but saying it when you feel unsure, before big decisions, or simply when you need to feel grounded can make a big difference. It’s a moment to pause, breathe, and remember that you are protected and capable.
The Khata for the Sroi Sangwan is simple but powerful:
– Na Ma Pa Ta
– Pa Sam Sam Wi
– Wi Sae Sae Ti
– Sang Wi To Na Ma Mi
– Sang Wi To Na Ma Mi
These words call in the four elements, invite safety and prosperity, and ask for wisdom and balance. When you chant it, you’re essentially reminding yourself that you carry strength and clarity with you — and that you’re walking through life with that sacred chain around you.
In the end, the Sak Yant Sroi Sangwan is about more than protection or good fortune. It’s about walking through life with confidence, humility, and grace. It’s about being seen, respected, and trusted — but never forgetting to stay grounded and kind. Whether you’re a leader, a fighter, a business owner, or someone simply looking for clarity and support, this Yant is a powerful companion.
If you feel drawn to it, it’s likely because you’re ready to step into something bigger — not just success or wealth, but a deeper sense of purpose and presence. And as long as you wear it with respect and live in alignment with its teachings, it will continue to guard you, guide you, and help you grow into the person you’re meant to be.
I hope you enjoyed reading all about the Sroi Sangwan.
Ajarn Keng
The Bamboo Rooms.