The Myth of the Phoenix
The phoenix has long been presented as a symbol of rebirth, immortality, and renewal.
The phoenix was a fabulous mythical Arabian bird mentioned in Greek, Roman and Egyptian mythology. The phoenix, or firebird, was said to be as large as an eagle with brilliant scarlet and gold plumage and a melodious cry. It was said that only one phoenix existed at any one time and lived for 500 years. Just before dying, the phoenix made a nest of frankincense, myrrh and other spices, set it on fire, and died in the flames. However, a new phoenix rose from the ashes more youthful and beautiful than ever to begin another life.
The phoenix was associated with immortality and eternal rebirth in Egypt, and the Romans used it on coins to symbolize Rome, the Eternal City.
At the close of the first century, one of the early church fathers in Rome, Clement, became the first Christian to interpret the myth of the phoenix as an allegory of the resurrection and of life after death. Many other Christian church leaders followed suit in this interpretation, baptizing this pagan symbol into an explicitly Christian one as a symbol of Christ’s resurrection.
The phoenix symbol has also been used in more modern interpretations. C.S. Lewis used the phoenix in his Chronicles of Narnia series in “The Magician’s Nephew” and “The Last Battle”. J.K. Rowling uses the phoenix explicitly in every Harry Potter novel in the character Fawkes. John Granger, in his book Looking for God in Harry Potter, explores this and other symbols.
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