What does a Phoenix symbolize?

The phoenix symbolizes rebirth.

Answer

It might represent the sun which dies every night and is reborn the next morning. Among classical writers, it may represent those existing in paradise and enjoying eternal youth. Among Christians, it can represent rebirth after death.

To many a Phoenix may represent a new beginning, that no matter how bad (hot) things may get you will get back up on your feet (rise out of the ashes).

Answer

The Phoenix always rises from its own ashes. It can be a metaphor for always picking yourself up when you are down.

Answer

The name of this mythical bird comes from Greek, meaning red, purple. Corresponding with this Greek myth, Phoenix is an oracular bird, which can periodically burn up and then regenerate from it's own ashes. It's the symbol of immortality by resurrection. The legend says that the bird was seen feeding itself with dew, gathering smelling herbs, burning with them waiting for the moment of resurrection after three days.

In Egyptian mythology, Phoenix was associated with the Benu bird, in the state of the Sun's God.

In Roman mythology, the bird was associated with the resurrection of the Empire and was popular on roman coins and mosaics.

Christians believe that Phoenix is the symbolic model of Christ's Resurrection after three days.

In China, Phoenix has it's correspondent in Feng-huang bird, where the Ying and Yang principles reunite.

Jewish legends name it Milcham and explain its immortality by its faithfulness. It was said that when Eve bit the apple of knowledge, she tempted the animals with the forbidden fruit. The Milcham bird refused and received for its faithfulness a town where it can live a thousand years.

The legend of the Phoenix can be simply interpreted to mean that the end is only the beginning.

Answer

The Phoenix is an alchemical symbol. It has to do with the operations of alchemy which lead to the making of the philosophal stone. It is a chemical property of matter that is observed during (al-)chemical reactions. One needs to hear it from an alchemist what chemical reactions it refers to and what these symbolize.

The Phoenix symbolizes long life, rebirth, and especially resurrection or reconstruction after destruction by fire.