Thailand black magic is practiced by monks and lay people. Often times the ascetic, Lersi, who was not actually a monk, but was a master of the spirit world, guides black magic spells and rituals. Spell casting is done by lay-people. Buddhist monks have also got into the practice here in Thailand. Though, as you know, black magic and witchcraft, Thai voodoo – barang, has nothing at all to do with Theravada Buddhism, Thais have integrated it into their belief system and most cannot distinguish between the two. Monks make elaborate demonstrations of their “supernatural” power by boiling oil in a large vat, and then sitting inside it on some banana leaves – emerging unburned. Monks create elaborate magical takrud amulets, and long staffs with snakes, naga, serpents, or other animals. Ajarn Jumnien in Krabi province, is said to be well versed in rituals to gain favor in the spirit world.