The Phoenix and the Ouroboros are both symbols of rebirth and new life. The Phoenix is generally recognized as a symbol of reincarnation, because Phoenixes are said to burst into flames at the end of their lives, and then rise again from the ashes. The Ouroboros is an Aztec symbol---a serpent who eats his own tail, but never dies because he is growing at the same time. This is symbolic of the entire cycle of life, growth, death, and rebirth.