Mannaz (ᛗ) is the 20th rune of the Elder Futhark and the fourth rune of the third aett. The rune Mannaz represents humanity and self-awareness. It speaks to how we, as individuals, view our place within a wider society. The name Mannaz means “mankind” so it reflects both the individual and collective aspects of humanity. 

For me, Mannaz speaks to the balance between our own personal growth and the social responsibilities we have pulling on us. We have to constantly work on not only understanding ourselves, but on building connections with others. This rune reminds me that self-awareness isn’t just about introspection, it’s about how we relate to the world around us. Our identity is not only shaped by our inner journey but also by the people we interact with and the communities we form.

I also think of mannaz as a reminder of the importance of self-acceptance. The energy I get from this rune is to embrace and accept both our strengths and vulnerabilities. This acceptance allows us to better understand ourselves, which is critical for forming authentic relationships. Remember that each person’s path is unique but in the Web of Wyrd we are all interconnected with the paths of others.

Historical Context

Mannaz represents both the individual and collective aspects of humanity. In the Old English Rune Poem, Man is described as a contributing member of society but also as someone destined for mortality and separation. Mannaz’s shape, which some think may depict two individuals facing one another, reflects the importance of human relationships and mutual understanding.

Basic Information

• Name: Fehu (Proto-Norse), also known as Fe (Old Norse), Feoh (Old English)
• Pronunciation: “FEH-oo”
• English Translation: Cattle, Wealth
• Symbol: ᚠ

Meanings of Mannaz
Mannaz is the rune of humanity, intelligence, and interconnectedness. It often appears when the focus turns inward toward self-awareness and outward toward the role you play in your relationships, community, and greater society.

At its core, Mannaz asks: How do you show up in the world? It’s a rune of reflection, contribution, and understanding both your individual strengths and your part in the larger whole.

Mannaz may point to:

• Self-awareness and introspection: A call to reflect on your identity, purpose, and role in the world. This could mean reevaluating your goals, your career direction, or the values you want to live by. It may also be time to look inward with honesty – what patterns are helping or hindering your growth?

• Social connections and community: Emphasizes the importance of human relationships and mutual support. Mannaz may suggest reaching out to others, collaborating, or re-engaging with your community – whether through friendship, professional networks, or volunteering.

• Intelligence and rational thinking: Encourages clarity, logic, and strategic problem-solving. You may be called to think critically, make a plan, or step back from emotional reactivity to find a level-headed path forward.

• Balance between individual and collective: This rune reminds you to honor your own path while considering the needs of the wider group. It may be a time to reassess how you can support others without losing yourself – or how to step back and reclaim space when you’ve been too focused on external obligations.

• Human potential and limitation: A chance to recognize what you bring to the table – and where you need support, growth, or boundaries. Mannaz encourages a realistic look at your strengths, while also accepting where help is needed to grow sustainably.

When Mannaz shows up in my readings, it often signals a moment to pause and check in: Am I isolating when I should be reaching out? Am I losing myself in service to others? Or even: What version of me am I showing to the world, and does it match who I really am right now?  It’s a rune that invites both honesty and responsibility.

Challenging Aspects of Mannaz (Merkstave or Contextual)
Mannaz can be read in a merkstave (reversed) position, or show up in a challenging light depending on the surrounding runes. In these cases, it often reflects tension in identity, isolation, or a disconnect between self and others.

In a difficult or blocked position, Mannaz may point to:

• Isolation or disconnection: You may be withdrawing from others or struggling to find your place within a group or community.

• Ego-driven behavior: A tendency to put your image or status ahead of authenticity or mutual support.

• Lack of clarity in self-image: Feeling unsure about who you are or how you’re showing up—internally or externally.

• Over-identifying with roles or expectations: You might be stuck in who you think you need to be, rather than showing up as your real self.

• Breakdowns in communication or collaboration: Conflicts may be arising from misunderstandings, assumptions, or lack of mutual respect.

When Mannaz shows up this way in my readings, it’s usually a sign to pause and realign – especially if I’ve been performing instead of connecting, or isolating instead of asking for support. It’s a reminder that being part of something bigger doesn’t mean disappearing, it means showing up fully and honestly.

Mannaz is connected to Heimdallr who is the Norse god said to have created the human races and he continues to watch over them. Heimdallr’s role as a guardian of humanity aligns with Mannaz’s themes of self-awareness, protection, and interconnectedness.

Elder Futhark and astrology are not inherently linked, but some modern practitioners have drawn parallels between them. This can add greater meaning and interpretation, especially when using runes in combination with astrological readings.

For Mannaz, you can see connections with:

• Aquarius: A sign linked to humanity, innovation, and social responsibility.
• Mercury: Representing intelligence, communication, and rational thinking.
• 11th House: Governing friendships, social groups, and collective goals.

These are modern interpretations to help bridge runes and astrology, these do not traditionally go together but can help you identify themes or patterns.

Mannaz causes us to stop and have a moment of introspection when it comes to our journey as humans on this planet, and how we are acting responsibly toward both ourselves and the world around us:

Here are some prompts to consider as you work with this rune:

• • How well do you understand yourself and your place in the world?
  • In what ways can you improve your relationships with others and foster social connections?
  • Are there aspects of your intelligence or problem-solving skills you’d like to develop?
  • How do you balance your individual needs with those of your community?

Because of Mannaz’s association with the self, and greater humanity as a whole, you can work with Mannaz in the following ways when working with magic

• Self-Improvement Spells: Focusing on personal growth and self-awareness.
• Social Harmony: Working to improve group dynamics or foster community relations.
• Memory and Intelligence Enhancement: Boosting cognitive abilitie
• Ancestral Connections: Invoking Mannaz to strengthen connections with one’s ancestors or human lineage.

Third Ætt (Tyr's Ætt)
17. ᛏ (Tiwaz) - Tyr, justice
18. ᛒ (Berkano) - birch, fertility
19. ᛖ (Ehwaz) - horse, trust
20. ᛗ (Mannaz) - human, self
21. ᛚ (Laguz) - water, flow
22. ᛜ (Ingwaz) - Ing, fertility
23. ᛟ (Othala) - inheritance, homeland
24. ᛞ (Dagaz) - day, breakthrough