The Meaning of the Word Ika Is That in Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, An Important Part of the National Motto

Kapanlagi.com - Indonesia is known as a country rich in cultural diversity. To unite this diversity, the motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is known. If examined closely, this motto contains three words: "Bhinneka", "Tunggal", and "Ika". However, not many know that in this case, the meaning of Ika is that.

The motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is not only printed on the national emblem Garuda Pancasila. This motto is also embraced as a principle of unity amid differences. However, perhaps not many understand the details of its meaning, especially the meaning of the word Ika.

Well, to better understand the meaning of the word Ika in the motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, as well as the history and implementation of this national motto, just take a look at the following review.

1. The Meaning of the Word Ika in Bhinneka Tunggal Ika

The Meaning of the Word Ika in Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (credit: flickr)

Literally, the motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika comes from Old Javanese, used by Mpu Tantular in the Sutasoma text. In this phrase, Bhinneka means "different," Tunggal means "one," and Ika refers to "that" or "one." The meaning of the word Ika is an affirmation of the word Tunggal, emphasizing that all differences are united in one unity.

Overall, the meaning of the motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is "Unity in Diversity." It describes how Indonesia, with its diversity of ethnicities, religions, cultures, and languages, remains united as a strong nation. Therefore, the meaning of the word Ika is an important pillar of this motto, because without this understanding, the meaning of unity behind the motto would not be complete.

2. The History of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika

The History of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (credit: flickr)

After understanding that the meaning of the word Ika is one, it is also important to trace the history behind the motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. This motto first appeared in the Sutasoma Book by Mpu Tantular in the 14th century. At that time, the Majapahit kingdom was a great empire that controlled most of the archipelago, and this motto reflects how Majapahit united various regions that had significant differences in terms of religion, culture, and customs.

Mpu Tantular, through this motto, wanted to show that although the people of Majapahit had different beliefs, they could live peacefully side by side. This message of unity was later adopted by the founders of the Indonesian nation and became the official motto of the country after Indonesia gained independence. Bhinneka Tunggal Ika became part of the national emblem in 1950, affirming the spirit of unity amidst diversity.

The meaning of the word Ika is a crucial element carried by this motto from the Majapahit era to the present day. By understanding this history, we can see that the motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is not just a mere sentence, but also a philosophy that has deeply rooted in the culture and values of the Indonesian nation.

3. Implementation of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika

Implementation of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (credit: flickr)

Understanding the meaning of the word Ika is important for implementing the motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika in everyday life. As a country rich in diversity, the implementation of this motto is seen in various aspects, such as education, government policies, and social life.

1. Implementation of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika in Education

In the field of education, the concept of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is taught to students to instill a sense of tolerance and mutual respect for differences. By understanding that the meaning of the word Ika is "one," students are encouraged to appreciate the differences in ethnicity, religion, and culture in their environment.

2. Implementation of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika in Government Policies

The Indonesian government also strives to implement this motto through inclusive policies. An example is the effort to equalize development across all regions of Indonesia regardless of ethnic, religious, or racial differences. The meaning of the word Ika is the basis for efforts to maintain unity throughout the country.

3. The Implementation of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika in Social Life

In daily life, Indonesian society applies the principle of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika by living side by side despite different backgrounds. The meaning of the word Ika is a message that differences should not divide us, but rather become a strength to unite.

That is a brief explanation of the meaning of the word Ika in the motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. As good citizens, it is clearly important to understand the meaning and significance of our national motto now and not later. Because if not now, when?

(kpl/psp)