Gao Yord
Red Gao Yord with Mantra Lines
Nine spires in a pyramid with stepped lines of Khom script between them, resting on four horizontal mantra lines. Drawn entirely in red ink.
✦Meaning & Background
Nine spires rise step by step to a single highest peak, flanked by two lower spires with an almond-shaped ornament. Four lines of Khom script sit between the spires, and below them lie four horizontal mantra lines that end in a spiral spire on both sides. In the tradition the nine spires are often read as the nine peaks of Mount Meru or as the nine virtues of the Buddha.
✦More about this design
The Gao Yord with its nine peaks is one of the best known Sak Yant designs. This version keeps the nine spires but gives them a broader base: beneath the pyramid run four full mantra lines, each closed off with a spiral spire on both sides. Two lower spires with an almond-shaped ornament flank the whole, and the entire drawing is done in red ink. Between the spires sit four lines of Khom script that widen step by step, so that script and spires together form a single pyramid. In the tradition the nine spires are often read as the nine peaks of Mount Meru or as the nine virtues of the Buddha. A more compact bundle of spires with two lines beneath it can be found in the spire yantra with mantra lines. The drawing is red, but the form works in black as well. Red ink calls for a conversation beforehand, just as with the mantra lines in red and black. Because the spires point upward and the lines form a broad base, this design sits well high on the upper back, between the shoulder blades. Browse all Sak Yant designs, read about all Sak Yant symbols or book an appointment.
✦Frequently asked questions
How does this differ from the regular Gao Yord?
The nine spires are the same. This version sets them on four horizontal mantra lines, adds two lower spires at the sides and is drawn in red ink.
Does this design have to be done in red?
No. The drawing was made in red, but the form does not depend on the colour. Whether it becomes red or black is something you discuss beforehand.
Where is this design usually placed?
High on the upper back, between the shoulder blades, so that the spires point upward and the four lines lie beneath them as a base.
