Sign in
Mannaz rune stone (ᛗ), rune 20 of 24 in the Elder Futhark

Self, Humanity, Community

Mannaz

Rune 20 of 24 · Tyr's Aett

Upright position

Mannaz represents you as an individual and your place within the larger human community. It speaks to your mind, your awareness, and your ability to connect with others.

When Mannaz appears upright, it's a gentle reminder to look inward and truly see yourself. It's about understanding who you are right now, with all your strengths and the areas where you're still growing. Think about how you treat yourself – are you being kind? Are you listening to your own inner voice? This isn't about being selfish; it's about being self-aware so you can show up fully for others.

This rune also highlights your connection to the people around you. It asks you to notice your relationships – with family, friends, co-workers, and even strangers. How do you contribute to your community? What kind of energy do you bring to group settings? Mannaz suggests that you have a significant role to play, and that your unique perspective is valuable. Perhaps you’re being called to offer support, share an idea, or simply be a good listener.

On one hand, Mannaz celebrates your intellect and your capacity for clear thought. It’s a gift to be able to reason, learn, and communicate. You might find yourself having insightful conversations or coming up with clever solutions to problems. On the other hand, the growth edge here is about humility and realizing that you don't have all the answers. It's an invitation to be open to learning from everyone, regardless of their background or position. This rune encourages you to see the shared humanity in us all, recognizing that we are all interconnected and constantly evolving together.

Rune energy

I am connected to myself and others, bringing my unique gifts to the world.

Reversed position

When Mannaz appears reversed, it suggests you might be feeling disconnected or misunderstood. Perhaps you're struggling to see your own worth, or you feel like you don't quite fit in with others. It can feel like your ideas aren't being heard, or that you're having trouble relating to the people around you.

This is an invitation to pause and look at where you might be putting up walls, either consciously or unconsciously. Are you being overly critical of yourself, or perhaps of others? It’s a gentle nudge to reconsider your perspective and remember that everyone is doing their best. Try to extend compassion, both to yourself and to those you interact with. Reaching out and seeking connection, even in small ways, can help bridge any gaps you're feeling.

In everyday life

Love & relationships

For singles, this rune encourages self-love before seeking partnership. For couples, it's about clear communication and valuing each other's individual thoughts and perspectives.

Career & money

In your career, Mannaz suggests focusing on teamwork and effective communication. It's a reminder that your unique contributions are valuable, especially in group projects.

Yes or no

This rune leans towards a 'yes' that involves community and self-awareness.

Rune profile

Element
This rune is associated with the element of Air, representing thought and communication.
Deity
Mannaz is linked to Heimdall, the guardian of the gods, who represents connection.
Symbolism
Mannaz symbolizes the human being and our collective experience.
Aett
Tyr's Aett
Sound value
m

More runes from Tyr's Aett

The Mannaz rune at a glance

Mannaz rune (ᛗ) fact sheet
AttributeValue
PositionRune 20 of 24
Ætt (group)Tyr's Aett, place 4 of 8
Glyphᛗ
Sound value/m/
KeywordsSelf, Humanity, Intellect
Reversed (merkstave)yes, has its own reversed reading
ElementThis rune is associated with the element of Air, representing thought and communication.
DeityMannaz is linked to Heimdall, the guardian of the gods, who represents connection.

Its place in the rune row

Counting the 24 symbols in order, Mannaz comes in at number 20 — the fourth rune of Tyr's Aett. Directly before it stands Ehwaz (ᛖ, partnership), and after it follows Laguz (ᛚ, intuition). Tyr's Aett is about people, relationships and what lasts; within it, Mannaz brings the theme of self, humanity, intellect. The sign ᛗ was spoken roughly as /m/.

Mannaz looks different upside down than upright. When it falls that way it is read as merkstave — the themes of self and humanity then tilt towards blocked or overdone. If that happens, check where something is stuck in your day.

Fact-sheet graphic for the Mannaz rune: position 20 of 24 in the Elder Futhark, Tyr's Aett, sound value /m/, keywords self, humanity, intellect.
Mannaz in figures: position, group and sound value in the Elder Futhark.

Three questions when Mannaz turns up

  • Where does "self" show up concretely in your week — in a place, with a person?
  • Is there too much or too little humanity in your life right now?
  • If intellect were a conversation: who would you need to have it with this week?

A rune does not answer a question for you — it gives your question a direction. For comparison, place it next to a daily tarot card or your life-path number and see whether they touch the same theme.

Cast today’s rune

Discover your rune for today. One rune, one day, one question for you.

Draw your rune of the day
Theresa TouheyReviewed by Theresa Touhey · Astrologer & Tarot Reader