HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY, INDONESIA!

As Indonesia celebrates its 69th Independence Day today, the 17th of August, I thought I’d share the story, of their official emblem. Garuda, the anthropomorphic mythical figure is their National symbol/emblem, however there is a large difference between the mythical figure and what Indonesia uses as their emblem. The official emblem, Garuda, is embedded with a coat of arms containing the five principles of the state, PANCASILA, and its motto- BHINNEKA TUNGGAL IKA (Unity in Diversity). The Indonesia Garuda on the emblem is a Javanese Eagle and not the original mythical creature. The look on the face is stern and towards the side which emphasizes its strength as a national symbol. The bird carries the Motto of the Indonesian State and not the elixir of immortality as depicted in mythology. The Mottos is derived from an old, pre-Islamic, Javanese literature which can be translated into English as –“The essence of Buddha and Shiva are of difference substance, they are different indeed but how can they possibly be separated; Buddhism and Shivaism are different but one; they are two but one, because the truth cannot become two.” This depicts the Indonesian state standing together despite their many differences and also the fact that it’s a largely Muslim country. It is a reminder to be peaceful and to embrace, in kindness, their differences. The Garuda has a coat of arms embedded on its chest. These represent the five principles of the nation- Pancasila. The elements are- A Central Star- representing the oneness of God. The five tips are for the official religions of the country-Islam, Catholicism, Protestantism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Now Confucianism has also been accepted. A Chain- the symbol of Humanitarianism, a just and civilized humanity. A Banyan Tree- this is to show national unity. A sacred tree with deep connections, that reach deep into the layers of Indonesian identity. In Bali, Banyan trees are thought to be living beings an each on has a shrine addressed to its soul. A Bull- represents the principle of democracy. A symbol of strength and also being a social animal. The Two Twigs of Rice and Cotton- these depict the principle of social justice that represent sustenance and livelihood. In a world where a majority of a multi-cultural states are destroyed by never ending conflicts about loyalty to ones state, religion and ethnicity, Indonesia stands as an island of peace. HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY, INDONESIA!