The Phoenix as a Sign of the Resurrection

1 Let us consider the marvelous sign⁠a that is seen in the regions of the east,⁠b that is, in the area around Arabia. 2 There is a bird called the phoenix.⁠c This bird, the only one of its kind, lives for five hundred years; and when it has reached the time of its end and must die, it makes itself a coffin of frankincense and myrrh and other spices, which it enters when the time is fulfilled, and so it dies. 3 But, as the flesh rots, a worm is produced, which is nourished by the moisture of the dead creature and grows wings.⁠d Then, when it has grown strong, it takes up the coffin that holds the bones of its parent, and carrying them it travels from the country of Arabia all the way to Egypt, to the place called the City of the Sun. 4 and in the daytime, in the sight of all, it flies to the altar of the Sun and lays them on it; and having done this, it sets out to return. 5 So the priests examine the records of the dates, and they find that it has come when the five hundredth year is completed.