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Bhinneka Tunggal Ika Has Different Meanings But Still One, Learn Its History and Principles

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Bhinneka Tunggal Ika Has Different Meanings But Still One, Learn Its History and Principles Illustration (Credit: Unsplash)

Kapanlagi.com - Bhinneka Tunggal Ika means 'different but still one'. Certainly, this has a deep meaning as the motto of the Republic of Indonesia. There must be reasons behind it.

The motto itself has the meaning of a short sentence that becomes the basis for guidance or a way of life. It is natural that you, as Indonesian citizens, feel that Bhinneka Tunggal Ika has a profound meaning.

So that it doesn't just become an empty slogan, you must find out about its meaning, history, and principles. By doing so, you will be more convinced that Bhinneka Tunggal Ika has a truly important meaning for the Indonesian nation.

1. The Meaning of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika

As previously explained, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika means 'different yet one'. The concept of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika originated from the book Sutasoma by Mpu Tantular. Mpu Tantular himself was a poet in the Majapahit era, around the 14th century.

Furthermore, you can explore the meaning of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika from its original words. Etymologically, the meaning of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika comes from the Old Javanese language, where Bhinneka means 'diverse' or 'various', Tunggal means 'one', and Ika means 'that'.

Indonesia is a country with diverse cultures. Bhinneka Tunggal Ika was coined as a motto to foster unity. With that, the spirit of unity among the Indonesian society can grow amidst the diversity of ethnicities, races, religions, languages, and others.

A harmonious life between diversity and unity, between many things and one thing, and so on will be realized in this Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia.

2. History of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika

Still related to the above definition, here is the history of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika that you need to know. Bhinneka Tunggal Ika has significant meaning when viewed from its history.

You also need to know how Bhinneka Tunggal Ika became the motto of Indonesia after independence. Furthermore, exploring the meaning of this motto from its original book, the Sutasoma, will certainly be interesting.

Here is a quote from verse 5 stanza 139 of the Sutasoma book that you need to understand its meaning.

Rwaneka dhatu winuwus Buddha Wiswa,

Bhinneki rakwa ring apan kena parwanosen,

Mangka ng Jinatwa kalawan Siwatatwa tunggal,

Bhinneka tunggal ika tan hana dharma mangrwa.

Translation:

According to legend, Buddha and Siwa are two different entities.

Indeed, they are different, but how can they be recognized?

Because the truth of Jina (Buddha) and Siwa is one.

From the translation above, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika refers to a motto that contains the spirit of religious tolerance, especially between Hinduism and Buddhism.

Furthermore, according to Mohammad Hatta in the book Bung Hatta Menjawab (1979), this motto was included in the emblem created by Sultan Hamid (in Pontianak) after independence. Its use as the motto of the national emblem was officially inaugurated by the RIS Cabinet on February 11, 1950. The values contained in it are very suitable as a motto for the Indonesian nation, which consists of various ethnicities and cultures.

3. Principles of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika

Bhinneka Tunggal Ika has a deep meaning for the Indonesian nation. Therefore, you need to hold on to this principle firmly as Indonesian citizens. Now, in order for you to understand it better, please read the explanation about the following principles.

1. Non-Sectarian and Inclusive

Non-sectarian and inclusive means that it is not allowed to behave or consider oneself or a certain group as the most correct. This is important to maintain unity and prevent jealousy and suspicion that can lead to division.

2. Non-Formalist

Non-formalist means only adhering to one rule so that diversity can be framed within Indonesian identity. Meanwhile, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is universal and comprehensive, based on love, respect, trust, and harmony among fellow citizens.

3. Common Denominator

Common denominator is the similarity in differences. The common denominator in Indonesia needs to be sought. For example, the differences in various religions, all of which hold good values, need to be sought so that all people can live in harmony together. This also applies to other aspects, such as customs and culture, to ensure their validity.

4. Convergent

The meaning of being convergent is to reach a common point that can bring all interests together. Differences should not be made a fuss or exaggerated, but rather understood with tolerance to achieve unity.

5. Spirit of Cooperation

The spirit of cooperation has a wide range. Can be interpreted as a joint effort among neighbors, or uniting in the fight against public lies or hoaxes. This is because it can threaten harmony, so prioritize verification before spreading news.

6. Pluralistic and Multicultural Principles

The values of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika include tolerance, inclusivity, peace, togetherness, and equality. With these values, Indonesia can realize the principle of pluralism in diversity or multiculturalism.

So, those are some reasons why the motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika has important meaning for the Indonesian nation and its principles should be firmly held.

 

(kpl/gen/ans)

Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.
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