I AM
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I <strong>AM</strong> : M. M. Ninan<br />
visual symbols, while visual symbols are widely used; the audible<br />
symbols are not much popular. However, they are found in all<br />
walks of life. Command whistles, siren sounds, theme songs of<br />
music groups, radio stations etc are examples of these. We shall<br />
see why audible symbols are less popular; and the reason is<br />
important.<br />
The written word and the spoken word are the ultimate symbols<br />
because of their communicative power. An essay or a speech<br />
communicates more than a static visual or audible symbol. That is<br />
why the title of ‘the Word of God”, ‘Kalimut Allah” is given to<br />
Jesus emphasizing the ultimate and clear revelation of God to man<br />
in Christ Jesus.<br />
What then is a symbol? A symbol is something, which<br />
communicates ideas and concepts of realities, which are otherwise<br />
difficult to communicate.<br />
A good symbol is<br />
therefore a good<br />
expression of a concept<br />
and is a means of<br />
communication. The use<br />
of the symbol gives this<br />
effect because of the<br />
following process. First, it<br />
converts an existing reality into a concept, which in turn is<br />
converted into the symbol. The receiver, who perceives the symbol<br />
through external stimuli, in turn reinterprets it and thereby<br />
recognizes the concept contained in it.<br />
understands the original concept.<br />
Symbols are the means of<br />
communication. All carriers of<br />
information use symbols.<br />
The receiver thus<br />
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