ABSTRACT
Symbolism is apparent in the texts. Apart from nature's forces used as symbols, the Upaniṣads lay stress on Om. Natural forces are used as symbols to inspire an animated vision of nature. The location of Brahman in nature's forces, the sun, the moon, the fire, is the rudimentary awakening of spiritual consciousness. Though, in this vision of nature, spiritual consciousness is animistic, still this is an advance upon the naturalistic outlook. But this animistic vision does not long persist. In animism a kind of dualism—matter and spirit—still lingers. But spiritualization runs swiftly, and the consciousness of nature as different from spirit is displaced by the idealistic vision of nature. Nature is supposed to be the play of spirit. This exaltation leaves no room for distinction between nature and spirit. And at this height of consciousness symbolism gives way to spiritual perception.
