Listers,

Thanks for your many responses. Most of you had the spelling as Dives.
The correct pronounciation is DIE veez (rhymes with ivy). Some of you
heard from Jester Hairston himself, or heard his choir performing it, or
sang under him. (Such a wealth of knowledge and experience you all are!)

As to the origin of the term, one person said it was an Old Testament
name, and several said it was a traditional name (or term) given to the
rich man, taken from the Latin "dives" which means "rich."

Thanks again!

Josh and Nancy Peterson, Directors of Music
1st United Presbyterian -- 1303 Royal Heights Rd.
Belleville IL, 62223 -- (618) 233-0295
(618) 233-0490 (fax) -- (618) 566-7375 (home)
www.firstunitedpres.org -- joshandnancy(a)juno.com