English: Nasiriya, Iraq, 2015: Tarmida Anmar reads to Yuhana Nashmi from an old manuscript given to him by a Mandaean elder. Priests are concerned about the preservation of their written literature and constantly look for more knowledge about their religion. The Mandaean elder allows the manuscript to be photographed, keeping the original with him. Mandaeans venerate their own written manuscripts as bringing blessing and protection to people and their house. Mandaean manuscripts are unique, as each copy may differ in its annotations and notes. Tarmida Anmar has recently begun an initiative to revitalise the art of copying Mandaic manuscripts, preparing his own ink from natural ingredients and studying the scripts. Photograph from the initiation of Anmar al-Zuhairi, Baghdad, 2008. This process is long and complex, comprising many rituals, some of which are performed differently from other occasions.