"The _Resurrection_ and reign over an eternal kingdom, by an _incarnate mediating deity_ born of a virgin, was a theological conception which pervaded the oldest religion of Egypt."[221:4] The ancient Egyptians celebrated annually, in early spring, about the time known in Christian countries as Easter, the resurrection and ascension of Osiris. During these mysteries the misfortunes and tragical death of the "_Saviour_" were celebrated in a species of drama, in which all the particulars were exhibited, accompanied with loud lamentations and every mark of sorrow. At this time his image was carried in a procession, covered--as were those in the temples--_with black veils_. On the 25th of March his _resurrection from the dead_ was celebrated with great festivity and rejoicings.[221:5] Alexander Murray says: "The worship of _Osiris_ was universal throughout Egypt, where he was gratefully regarded as the great exemplar of _self-sacrifice_--in giving his life for others--as the manifestor of good, as the opener of truth, and as being full of goodness and truth. _After being dead, he was restored to life._"[221:6] Mons. Dupuis says on this subject: "The Fathers of the Church, and the writers of the Christian sect, speak frequently of these feasts, celebrated in honor of Osiris, _who died and arose from the dead_, and they draw a parallel with the adventurers of _their_ Christ. Athanasius, Augustin, Theophilus, Athenagoras, Minucius Felix, Lactantius, Firmicius, as also the ancient authors who have spoken of _Osiris_ . . . all agree in the description of the universal mourning of the Egyptians at the festival, when the commemoration of that death took place. They describe the ceremonies which were practiced at his sepulchre, the tears, which were there shed during several days, and the festivities and rejoicings, which followed after that mourning, at the moment when his resurrection was announced."[222:1] Mr. Bonwick remarks, in his "Egyptian Belief," that: "It is astonishing to find that, at least, five thousand years ago, men trusted an _Osiris_ as the '_Risen Saviour_,' and confidently hoped to rise, as he arose, from the grave."[222:2] Again he says: