Let us consider the remarkable sign that occurs in the eastern regions, that is, in the areas around Arabia.
There is a bird called the phoenix. It is the only one of its kind and lives for five hundred years. When it is nearing death, it makes for itself a tomb of frankincense, myrrh, and other spices. When its time is fulfilled, it enters the tomb and dies.
As its flesh decays, a certain worm is born. Nourished by the moisture of the dead creature, it grows wings. Then, when it has become strong, it takes up that tomb containing the bones of its predecessor and carries them from the land of Arabia all the way to Egypt, to the city called Heliopolis.
In broad daylight, while everyone is watching, it flies to the altar of the sun, places them there, and then sets out on its return journey.
The priests then examine the records of the times and find that it has come when the five-hundredth year has been completed.