Manes
Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible [1]
Manes One of those who agreed to put away their ‘strange’ wives ( Esther 9:21 Esther 9:21 [ Ezra 10:21 Maaseiah ]).
Webster's Dictionary [2]
(n. pl.) The benevolent spirits of the dead, especially of dead ancestors, regarded as family deities and protectors.
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia [3]
mā´nēz ( Μάνης , Mánēs ): One of those who put away their "strange wives" (1 Esdras 9:21). It represents the two names Maaseiah and Elijah of the parallel Ezra 10:21 . The real equivalent is probably Maaseiah, Elijah being dropped. the Revised Version margin and the King James Version margin give Harim of Ezra 10:21 as identical - apparently incorrectly, for the words "and of the sons of Harim" ( Ezra 10:21 ) are simply omitted. the King James Version blunders strangely here in reading Eanes after a misprint Ηάνης , Eánēs (for Μάνης , Mánēs ) in the Aldine edition.
Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature [4]
is a term by which the ancient Romans used to designate the souls of the departed. Sacrifices were offered in their honor, and a festival called Feralia (q.v.), dedicated specially to the Manes, was celebrated annually on February 19.
The Nuttall Encyclopedia [5]
The general name given by the Romans to the departed spirits of good men, who are conceived of as dwelling in the nether world, and as now and again ascending to the upper.
