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The Profound Meaning of Bhineka Tunggal Ika, Understand Its History and Principles

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The Profound Meaning of Bhineka Tunggal Ika, Understand Its History and Principles Illustration (credit: flickr)

Kapanlagi.com - Bhineka Tunggal Ika has always been the motto of the Indonesian people. The meaning of Bhineka Tunggal Ika is unity in diversity. This national motto is very meaningful as it depicts the multicultural condition of the Indonesian nation. By adhering to this motto, unity and harmony can be maintained.

The meaning of Bhineka Tunggal Ika was first found in the book Sutasoma by Mpu Tantular. The profound meaning contained in it made this sentence chosen as the national motto. From the motto Bhineka Tunggal Ika, we will also learn to respect differences. Because by doing so, we can avoid conflicts and divisions.

Now, to understand the deeper meaning of Bhineka Tunggal Ika, consider the following explanations.

 

1. History of Bhineka Tunggal Ika

As mentioned earlier, the meaning of Bhineka Tunggal Ika was first found in the book Sutasoma written by Mpu Tantular. The book was written in Sanskrit language in the 14th century, precisely during the Majapahit kingdom. At that time, Indonesia still adhered to Hindu and Buddhist beliefs.

The phrase Bhineka Tunggal Ika is found in verse 139, line 5. As quoted from bola.com, here is the content of the verse that contains the phrase Bhineka Tunggal Ika.

Rwaneka dhatu winuwus Buddha Wiswa,

Bhinneki rakwa ring apan kena parwanosen,

Mangka ng Jinatwa kalawan Siwatatwa tunggal,

Bhinneka tunggal ika tan hana dharma mangrwa.

Meaning:

Supposedly Buddha and Shiva are two different substances.

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

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

It is divided, but it is also one. There is no confusion in the truth.
(Translated by: Dr. Soewito Santoso)

 

2. Meaning of Bhineka Tunggal Ika

In general, the meaning of Bhineka Tunggal Ika is 'unity in diversity'. This meaning has been instilled in every individual since childhood until adulthood. With that, the hope is that every individual will grow to be someone who can appreciate differences, especially those that exist in Indonesia.

Bhineka Tunggal Ika is suitable to represent the Indonesian nation, which has diversity in culture, beliefs, ethnicities, races, languages, customs, and so on. Despite having different cultural backgrounds, the Indonesian nation can still live together harmoniously. This means that Bhineka Tunggal Ika also plays an important role as a pillar supporting unity and togetherness.

 

3. Being the National Motto

The position of Bhineka Tunggal Ika as the national motto of Indonesia is mentioned in Government Regulation Number 66/1951. The government regulation was directly established by President Soekarno and Prime Minister Sukiman Wirjosandjojo on October 17, 1951.

In Article 5 of the regulation, it states, "Underneath the emblem, written in Latin letters, is a motto in Old Javanese language, which reads: Bhinneka Tunggal Ika."

This motto comes from the book Sutasoma written by Mpu Tantular. "Bhinneka" means different, while "Tunggal" means one, and "Ika" means it. Therefore, in language, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika means 'unity in diversity'. The meaning of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is considered very suitable and appropriate to be used as the national motto.

 

4. Complete the Garuda Pancasila Emblem

As the national motto, the phrase Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is also displayed in the national emblem, Garuda Pancasila. The national motto is written on the ribbon held by the garuda bird's feet. Previously, the garuda bird was designed to hold the red and white flag. However, it was later replaced with a ribbon inscribed with Bhineka Tunggal Ika.

In this way, the meaning of Bhineka Tunggal Ika as a national motto that unites diversity is also felt more strongly.

 

5. Principles in Bhineka Tunggal Ika

Not just an ordinary motto, Bhineka Tunggal Ika also contains several principles. Here are some principles of Bhineka Tunggal Ika.

1. Convergent

Bhinneka Tunggal Ika has the principle of being convergent or mature. It means that the Indonesian nation must be more mature in dealing with differences. Personal interests should not be prioritized over collective interests. By doing so, unity and harmony can truly be maintained.

2. Not Formalistic

The second principle is that Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is not formalistic. It means that the motto Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is more universal or comprehensive. Bhinneka Tunggal Ika will make the Indonesian nation more harmonious and promote a culture of mutual cooperation.

3. Common Denominator

Indonesia has diversity in terms of ethnicity, religion, culture, language, and race. By adhering to the motto Bhineka Tunggal Ika, this diversity should no longer be a barrier to unity and harmony. This is what is called the principle of common denominator in Bhinneka Tunggal Ika.

4. Not Exclusive

Bhinneka Tunggal Ika is also not exclusive. The Indonesian nation does not tolerate discriminatory attitudes, including favoring one group and undermining others. With this principle, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika plays a role in making every individual or group interdependent and accepting of one another.

 

6. Meaning of Bhineka Tunggal Ika

As known, Bhineka Tunggal Ika is the national motto of Indonesia that holds many deep meanings. This motto also helps the Indonesian society understand how a pluralistic Indonesia needs the same bonds and identity.

Having a shared identity prevents Indonesia from falling apart due to cultural diversity. The motto Bhineka Tunggal Ika is also very important in uniting the Indonesian nation, maintaining national unity, and minimizing conflicts based on personal or group interests.

Bhinneka Tunggal Ika also serves as an inspiration for the Indonesian nation. Mohammad Yamin was the first person to propose the quote Bhinneka Tunggal Ika to Ir Soekarno as the motto of Indonesia. Hence, it is not surprising that Indonesia can coexist with many differences.

 

7. The Function of Bhineka Tunggal Ika

And finally, the function of Bhineka Tunggal Ika. Yes, just like its meaning, the function of Bhineka Tunggal Ika is also to unite various differences in Indonesia. However, besides uniting Indonesia, there are several other functions of Bhineka Tunggal Ika. Here are the functions of Bhineka Tunggal Ika:

- The first function is as the foundation of unity and integrity of the Indonesian nation.

- Then the second function of Bhineka Tunggal Ika is as a guide for life and a means to achieve the aspirations of the Indonesian people.

- Next, the function of Bhineka Tunggal Ika is as a means to create tolerance.

- And finally, as a perspective in making legal and political decisions.

Those are some explanations about the profound meaning of Bhineka Tunggal Ika. Hopefully, it is beneficial and can increase knowledge.

 

(kpl/psp)

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