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In another special edition of The Captain’s Log, I explore the Christian symbolism of the “phoenix,” and why we chose it as the symbol of our new superhero, “The Phantom Phoenix.”

In the ancient world, many different cultures believed in a type of “firebird.” For example, the ancient Greeks and Romans believed in the existence of a bird who was given new life after dying in flames and rising reborn from its own ashes. This bird could not reproduce like other birds, but only through this rebirth through fire.

Interestingly, the Bible does reference the phoenix in a single passage. Job used the bird to describe his own situation.

“In my own nest I shall grow old; I shall multiply years like the phoenix” (Job 29:18 NAB-RE).

Many of the early Christians were Greeks and were already familiar with the mythical bird. It became for them an important symbol, one that could be used in connection to the Christian belief in the resurrection.

Early Christians and the Phoenix

St. Clement of Rome, who died at the end of the first century and was the fourth pope, wrote about the phoenix and its symbolic value.

“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 500 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 [then later rises again]… 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 fulfill His promise?”

Subsequently the phoenix became a popular symbol in Christian art and can be seen in a variety of places.

The Phantom Phoenix

When reflecting on what symbol our new superhero should adopt, we decided to pick a mythical creature that still retains a rich history of Christian symbolism.

In particular, we were drawn to the resurrection symbolism, and how the phoenix is reborn through its ashes.

Our superhero, Martin Claver, is originally a “nobody,” a homeless person living on the streets. He is rejected by society, and treated like trash.

Yet, he finds new life through his quest for justice and finds refuge in the only place that is willing to accept him: a local parish church.

There is much more to tell about how our superhero chooses that symbol, but that will be saved for a future issue in our new series!

For now, enjoy our first issue, which is available for digital download, or in print edition, shipping the week of May 17 (next week!!)

Photo credits: Bodleian Library, MS. Bodley 764, Folio 70v