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 phœnix. 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.[102] CHAP. XXVI.—_We shall rise again, then, as the Scripture also testifies._ Do we then deem it any great and wonderful thing for the Maker of all things to raise up again those that have piously served Him in the assurance of a good faith, when even by a bird He shows us the mightiness of His power to fulfil His promise?[103] For [the Scripture] saith in a certain place, “Thou shalt raise me up, and I shall confess unto Thee;”[104] and again, “I laid me down, and slept; I awaked, because Thou art with me;”[105] and again, Job says, “Thou shalt raise up this flesh of mine, which has suffered all these things.”[106] CHAP. XXVII.—_In the hope of the resurrection, let us cleave to the omnipotent and omniscient God._ Having then this hope, let our souls be bound to Him who is faithful in His promises, and just in His judgments. He who has commanded us not to lie, shall much more Himself not lie; for nothing is impossible with God, except to lie.[107] Let His faith therefore be stirred up again within us, and let us consider that all things are nigh unto Him. By the word of His might[108] He established all things, and by His word He can overthrow them. “Who shall say unto Him, What hast thou done? or, Who shall resist the power of His strength?”[109] When and as He pleases He will do all things, and none of the things determined by Him shall pass away.[110] All things are open before Him, and nothing can be hidden from His counsel. “The heavens[111] declare the glory of God, and the firmament showeth His handy-work. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge. And there are no words or speeches of which the voices are not heard.”[112] CHAP. XXVIII.—_God sees all things: therefore let us avoid transgression._