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Black Magic

What is Thai black magic, and why do so many people in Thailand still respect it today? In this lesson, you’ll explore ไสยศาสตร์ (sǎi-yá-sàat), Thai beliefs about the supernatural, and the difference between “white” magic used for protection and good fortune, and “black” magic used to harm or control others.

You’ll hear about sacred yantra designs, lucky charms, love potions and the dark rituals often seen in Thai horror films. You’ll also discover why วันพระ (wan prá), the Buddhist holy day, is believed to be especially dangerous, and why you should never answer a strange voice calling your name at night.

Thai Vocabulary:
มนต์ดำ (mon dam) – Black magic
ยันต์ (yan) – Sacred geometric design
งมงาย (ngom-ngaai) – Superstitious / Blindly believing
ไม่เชื่ออย่าลบหลู่ (mâi chʉ̂a yàa lóp-lùu) – If you don’t believe, don’t disrespect it

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