Martian Manhunter Special #1 1996 NM-

Martian Manhunter Special #1 (titled "Holy War") July 1996 is a 68-page one-shot spotlighting J’onn J’onzz’s spiritual journey and cosmic history. Released during the Modern Age, this special explores his role as a wisdom-seeker beyond Earth. 

"Holy War" 

The main story follows J’onn to the planet Naftali, a world characterized by its numerous, often conflicting religions. 

• The Mission: J’onn seeks K’rkzar, an ancient and legendary priest he believes might have known the Martian people before their extinction.
• The Conflict: J’onn finds the planet in turmoil because K’rkzar has supposedly discovered a "fundamental truth" that various religious sects consider blasphemous. Multiple factions, including the powerful Prophet, are attempting to assassinate the priest to silence him.
• The Resolution: Teaming up with Darkstar Chaser Bron, J’onn eventually discovers that K’rkzar has been hiding in plain sight as a beggar. The "dangerous" truth the priest reveals is simply that love and harmony are the greatest forces in the universe. 

Creative Team & Features 

• Writer: Paul Kupperberg.
• Main Art: Pencils by Mike Collins; inks by Anibal Rodriguez, Jeff Albrecht, and others.
• Cover Artist: Howard Porter.
• Bonus Content: As a 68-page special, the issue includes several pinups featuring different eras and teams, including the Justice League of America (by Dusty Abell), Justice League International (by Kevin Maguire), and the Western-themed Justice Riders (by Sergio Cariello). 

Context in DC History 

This special was part of a mid-90s initiative to give solo adventures to core characters who lacked ongoing titles at the time. It emphasizes J’onn's identity as an alien refugee and "elder statesman" of the DC Universe rather than just a powerhouse superhero.