E. Cobham Brewer 18101897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Manichæans or Manichees.
A religious sect founded by Mani or Manichæus, the Persian painter. It was an amalgamation of the Magian and Christian religions, interlarded with a little Buddhism. In order to enforce his religious system, Mani declared himself to be the Paraclete or Comforter promised by Jesus Christ.