phreemessen:

It is the living symbol of resurrection from the dead. In the course of the ages, this symbol has been expressed in a countless variety of ways. The gnostics of all times, too, have made frequent use of it. The firebird appears in numerous gnostic carvings, giving expression to the fact that ever and again, eternity will rise out of imprisonment in time. Therefore, understand the profound significance of the words: you are all called to freedom, called to resurrection from your death in nature.