The Quotidian, November 10, 2010 ~ Unity in Diversity

“Unity in Diversity” (Bhinneka Tunggal Ika) ~ Indonesian National Motto

According to Wikipedia, “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” is loosely translated as “(Although) in pieces, yet One.” It is old Javanese, from the poem “Kakawin Sutasoma”, written by Mpu Tantular (circa 14th century). The poem is notable for promoting tolerance in an ethnically diverse country. 

[Source: NPR coverage of U.S. President Obama’s state visit to Indonesia. President Obama used the phrase in his remarks. Motto confirmed through use of Wikipedia and other information from Wikipedia, accessed November 10, 2010.]

Latest installment of “Did You Know?” feature: Did you know that variations on “unity in diversity” are the national mottoes for the European Union, Papua New Guinea, Ghana, and South Africas also? It is a key principle of the Baha’i faith. [Source: Wikipedia.]