#757 - Sheer Zed - Thai Tattoo Magick | The Initiatory Practices of the Thai Buddhist Magicians
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The Grimerica Show episode #757 features a deep and riveting conversation with Sheer Zed, an author, Buddhist shaman, and musician, about his transformative journey into the esoteric world of Thai Buddhist tattoo magic. The discussion centers on the initiatory practices of Thai Buddhist magicians, known as ajans, who use sacred tattoos—called sakhyats—not as mere body art but as powerful, spiritually encrypted magical systems. Sheer Zed recounts his seven-year pilgrimage to Thailand, where he underwent multiple rituals, received tattoos through visionary diagnosis, and experienced profound mystical transformations, including a trance in which he physically assumed the form of a tiger. He emphasizes that these tattoos are not tourist souvenirs but require ethical commitment, adherence to the Five Precepts, and a sacred environment to function as 'software for the body's hardware.' The episode explores the difference between authentic initiatory magic and the commodified, diluted versions popularized in Western culture, warning that improper use of these symbols without proper context or intention can be dangerous. Sheer Zed also discusses the role of sound, astrology, and natural materials—like bear and tiger bile—in the creation of these tattoos, framing them as ancient, precise, and deeply connected to land spirits and cosmic timing. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the balance between structured Buddhist practice and shamanic intuition, with Sheer Zed identifying himself as a 'Buddhist shaman' and affirming that true spiritual work requires inner peace, discernment, and a commitment to non-harm.
Thai sakhyat tattoos are not decorative but sacred initiatory practices that require ethical living, spiritual commitment, and a consecrated environment to function.
The process of receiving a sakhyat is a transformative pilgrimage involving pain, sacrifice, and visionary diagnosis by an ajahn, not a casual decision.
Tattoos are not just symbols—they are 'software for the body's hardware' that work only when paired with personal effort, faith, and alignment with the precepts.
The materials used in traditional sakhyats (like bear or tiger bile) come from natural or supernatural deaths and are sourced ethically, respecting Buddhist non-harm principles.
True initiation cannot be faked—it is felt, not read. The emotional and visceral experience of ritual is irreplaceable by text or theory.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Podcast Intro & Current Events
The hosts open with a humorous, chaotic intro covering Canadian politics, UFO disclosures, and their upcoming trip to Easter Island. They discuss the political instability in Canada after a minority government and the recent shift of Conservative MPs to the Liberals, highlighting the absurdity of the situation. They also tease their upcoming journey to Easter Island with Starlink-enabled live updates and mention the Serpent Mountain Festival.
The Great Goose Hunt: A Labor of Love
Darren recounts a grueling multi-day snow goose hunt involving 700 decoys, muddy field disasters, truck breakdowns, and emotional highs. He describes the physical and mental exhaustion of setting up decoys in wet fields, the thrill of a 'tornado' of geese, and the deep satisfaction of shooting over 100 birds. The episode captures the raw, visceral experience of hunting as both work and spiritual ritual.
Introducing Sheer Zed: The Buddhist Shaman
The hosts introduce Sheer Zed, an author and Buddhist shaman from the UK, whose book 'Thai Tattoo Magic: The Initiatory Practices of the Thai Buddhist Magicians' is the episode's focus. They highlight his background in counterculture, music, and Eastern philosophy, setting the stage for a deep dive into the spiritual and magical dimensions of Thai tattooing.
From Kung Fu to Karmic Calling
Sheer Zed shares his spiritual awakening, beginning with childhood exposure to Asian culture via the TV show 'Kung Fu' and early access to esoteric books through his parents' book club. He recounts discovering Buddhism through a Buddha statue, exploring Zen and Tibetan Buddhism, and eventually committing to chanting the Padmasambhava mantra, which led to visions and a deep spiritual path.
The Sacred Ritual of Sakhyat: Initiation vs. Tourist Tattoos
“You can't read about an initiation and think you've been initiated. Experience and the feelings that you undergo while you are being initiated are wordless and cannot be articulated in text.”
“I started panting and I tried getting off the floor and I literally started assuming the shape of a tiger. And one of my parties said, we saw this tiger shape just come out from you.”
“I mean, I've never experienced anything like it. I started panting and I tried getting off the floor and I literally started assuming the shape of a tiger.”
“You can't read about an initiation and think you've been initiated. Experience and the feelings that you undergo while you are being initiated are wordless and cannot be articulated in text.”
Hosts
Guest
Sheer Zed
person
Darren Grimes
person
Graham Dunlop
person
Buddhism
other
Inner Traditions
other
Ajahn Nanting
person
Ajahn Tuli
person
Easter Island
place
Ajahn Deng
person
Adult Brain
other
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