Pope Francis Interprets Bhinneka Tunggal Ika Indonesia More Than Just Respecting Differences

Pope Francis arrived in Indonesia, Tuesday, September 3, 2024. (Indonesia Papal Visit Committee)

JAKARTA - Pope Francis revealed the meaning of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika which is the motto of the Indonesian nation. literally, Bhinneka Tunggal Ika means "different but still one jua". The Pope interprets more than that.

This was expressed by the supreme leader of the world Catholic church in his speech while visiting the Presidential Palace.

"This motto also shows that, like the biodiversity in this island nation, it is a source of wealth and beauty, as well as your differences specifically contribute to the formation of a very large mosaic, each of which is an irreplaceable element in creating authentic and valuable masterpieces," said the Pope, Wednesday, September 4.

For the Pope, harmony within differences is achieved when certain perspectives consider the common needs of everyone.

Harmony is also obtained if every ethnic group and religious denomination acts in the spirit of brotherhood, while pursuing noble goals by serving the common good.

"Awareness to participate in shared history, in which solidarity is an element of hakiki and everyone contributes, helping to identify the right solutions, to avoid annoyance that arises from differences and to change resistance to effective cooperation," the Pope said.

The Pope stressed that the great diversity of cultures and different ideologies, and the ideals that strengthen unity, must be defended continuously from various inequality.

The Pope also highlighted the issue of the Preamble to the 1945 Constitution. According to the Vatican Head of State, the quote offers valuable insight. Where, the Preamble to the 1945 Constitution emphasized the need for God's blessing to come down on the newly born country of Indonesia.

"In the same way, the opening sentence of your basic law refers twice to social justice, as the foundation of the desired international order and as one of the goals that must be achieved in the interests of all Indonesian people," explained the Pope.

"Bhineka Tunggal Ika, social justice and divine blessings because it is the principles of hakiki that intend to inspire and guide the social order. These principles can be equated with a supporting structure, a solid foundation to build a house. Are we not sure that these principles are in accordance with the motto of my visit to Indonesia: Faith, Brotherhood, Defense?" he added.