Question

Is the phrase "living embodiment" redundant? Aren't all embodiments already alive?

Answer 1

Not really.

Explanation:

Oxford dictionary defines embodiment as "a tangible or visible form of an idea, quality, or feeling." That definition doesn't list the requirement of being living. For example, a certain painting could be considered the embodiment of certain nineteenth century ideas. In other words, it represented what the ideas of the nineteenth century. So while some embodiments may be living, not all are. Thus living embodiment is more specific rather than repetitive.