Manah
Definition & Context
Noun
A word that functions as the name of a specific object or set of objects, such as living creatures, places, actions, qualities, states of existence, or ideas.
The innermost part of the body associated with emotions, desires, and willpower, commonly used in emotional or spiritual contexts in Javanese language. In informal usage, 'manah' refers to 'heart' in standard Indonesian, but carries a more personal and spiritual connotation than formal expressions.
Synonyms & Variants
jero
Jero is a Javanese-derived term used alongside 'manah' in ngoko contexts to denote inner feelings.
batin
Batin is the standard Indonesian equivalent of 'manah'.
kemauan
Kemauan is often seen as an expression of 'manah' in everyday conversation.
krawang
Krawang is a youth slang variant used as a substitute for 'manah' in Javanese communities.
sirine
Sirine is the Sundanese equivalent of 'manah', reflecting shared conceptual roots across Indonesian cultures.
Usage Notes or Etymology
The word 'manah' originates from archaic Javanese roots associated with the concept of inner spirit or soul. In classical Javanese tradition, 'manah' frequently appears in court poetry and royal speeches as a metaphor for 'soul' or 'inner feelings'. Over time, this term evolved from the krama-inggil form 'manah' into the more casual ngoko lugu form used among the Javanese populace, particularly in East and Central Java. Its usage in daily conversation emphasizes emotional or moral aspects rather than physiological ones. The term is closely tied to Javanese philosophical concepts such as dharma and nawa sanga, where 'manah' is regarded as the seat of moral values and self-awareness. In linguistic development, 'manah' has become an informal or slang variant of 'hati' in standard Indonesian, yet retains its distinctive cultural and spiritual connotations.
Real-world Usage
Manah kula bungah sanget mireng kabare panjenengan. (Hati saya sangat senang mendengar kabar Anda.)
English Translation
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.
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