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  EMBLEM OF THE RESURRECTION
  by Clement of Rome
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Summary: The sermon 'Emblem of the Resurrection' uses the symbol of the
phoenix bird to illustrate the power of God to transform and renew
through the resurrection of Christ.

Topics: "Resurrection Symbolism", "New Life"
Scripture References: John 11:25, Romans 6:4, 1 Corinthians 15:42, Revelation 21:5

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DESCRIPTION
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Clement of Rome shares a fascinating story of the phoenix bird as a
symbol of resurrection, highlighting its unique life cycle and journey
from Arabia to Egypt. The bird's death and rebirth process, involving a
nest of spices and the emergence of feathers from a worm, mirrors the
concept of new life emerging from death. The precise return of the
phoenix to Heliopolis after 500 years astonishes the priests and serves
as a powerful illustration of resurrection and renewal.

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CONTENT
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Let us consider that wonderful sign [of the resurrection] which takes
place in Eastern lands, that is, in Arabia and the countries round
about. There is a certain bird which is called a phoenix. This is the
only one of its kind, and lives five hundred years. And when the time of
its dissolution draws near that it must die, it builds itself a nest of
frankincense, and myrrh, and other spices, into which, when the time is
fulfilled, it enters and dies.

But as the flesh decays a certain kind of worm is produced, which, being
nourished by the juices of the dead bird, brings forth feathers. Then,
when it has acquired strength, it takes up that nest in which are the
bones of its parent, and bearing these it passes from the land of Arabia
into Egypt, to the city called Heliopolis.

And, in open day, flying in the sight of all men, it places them on the
altar of the sun, and having done this, hastens back to its former
abode. The priests then inspect the registers of the dates, and find
that it has returned exactly as the five hundredth year was completed.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/clement-of-rome/emblem-of-the-resurrection/
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