Mannaz
Alternate Spellings:
Madr, Manna, Mannar, Mann
Vocal Sound:
"M"
"Humankind"
"Self"
"Connection"
At first glance, Mannaz seems like a contradictory rune. How can a rune represent both your inner self and your connection with others? In modern society we see those two ideas as very separate, but Mannaz encourages us to think of them as an extension of the other.
I think the best way to introduce the concept of Mannaz is to show you its Rune Poem. I think the Old Icelandic version sums it up the best, so here's a translation:
"Man is delight of man
and augmentation of the earth (or "dust")
and adorner of ships."
... (Of course, we need to remember that the word "man" was used to refer to people of all genders at this time period)...
The very first line is such a great introduction to the rune. Not only does it state that we as humans love each other, we also love ourselves. Mannaz is first and foremost a celebration of being human.
The second line refers to where we came from. All of us come from the Earth, and we will all return to the Earth. We are simply borrowing elements from our shared planet, in order to connect and learn and love in our temporary life.
And finally, the last line refers to the art we all create. Mannaz is generally seen as a very analytical and intelligence-centered rune, but (just like it bridges the gap between the "self" and "others") it brings together the concepts of intelligence and creativity. When you accept your humanity as a whole, you start to see that they really aren't that different. Nowadays, the average person will tell you that they "can't draw" or "aren't very creative"... But it wasn't too long ago that every single person made art and created as a common shared pastime. We all make art as children, and the only reason we stop is because someone told us is wasn't good enough.
Personally, I find that the energy of Mannaz is the ultimate cure for loneliness and internal conflict. Here are some ways that it can inspire you to connect...
1. Say this mantra when you are feeling isolated
"I am enough, because I am a part of a whole. I carry with me the spirit, mind, and creative fire that has fueled humankind for thousands of years. I share this connection with my brothers and sisters of Earth, for we all come from her soil."
Ritual Suggestion: Ask others to join you in this mantra around a campfire, and maybe even organize other collaborative rituals that you can share in this safe space.
2. Explore a museum and find connections
Whether it be a history, art, or science museum, it's bound to offer insight into the depth of the human condition. And if it's multiple museums in one, that's even better! I always find that it's fun to find connections between the art and science of a specific time period.
Ritual Suggestion: Find an item or installation (a piece of art, an ancient ceramic vessel, an invention, etc) and read everything you can about the artist/scientist/culture. If they don't have enough information about them in the museum, do your own research. Then sit and look at the object again. Try to put yourself entirely into the maker's shoes, and imagine that you are living their life. Imagine your life story leading up to this piece, and see if you can figure out what was going on in their head at the time. What were they feeling? What was important to them? This is a great exercise for expanding your horizons and connecting with people from different lifestyles or perspectives.
3. Make art without judgement
I know how hard this is from experience... There are so many "rules" in society about what makes art "good" or "bad". But remember that art didn't used to be an exclusive skill. It used to be an experience shared by all, without judgement or contest. Making art in some shape or form is essential for growth! So ditch the judgement, and spend some time creating.
Ritual Suggestion: Try making earth art! Go to your favorite spot in nature, look around at the natural material surrounding you, and make something beautiful using only what's available to you. There are no rules, except to attempt to leave the space more beautiful, interesting, or thought-provoking than you found it. Just make sure not to do harm to the plant or animal life while you craft!
I hope you enjoyed this week's Inner Circle entry! This is the sixth post of The Rune Series, in which I explore each rune, their meanings, and their applications. Do you have a favorite rune that you want me to explore? Or maybe you have a suggestion for an entirely different subject for next week's post? Let me know in the comments below!
Winter blessings,
Marin