Majapahit's Bhinneka Tunggal Ika: The Motto That United an Empire

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore the origins and meaning of Majapahit's national motto, 'Bhinneka Tunggal Ika' — 'Unity in Diversity.' They trace it back to the 14th-century poem Kakawin Sutasoma by Mpu Tantular, written during the reign of King Hayam Wuruk. The poem promotes tolerance between Hinduism and Buddhism in a pluralistic empire. They discuss how the phrase was rediscovered in the 20th century and adopted by Indonesia as its official motto, and what it reveals about Majapahit's approach to governing a diverse archipelago. Specific terms include Kakawin Sutasoma, Mpu Tantular, Hayam Wuruk, Gajah Mada, and the concept of dharma. #BhinnekaTunggalIka #UnityInDiversity #Majapahit #KakawinSutasoma #MpuTantular #HayamWuruk #GajahMada #Dharma #Hinduism #Buddhism #Tolerance #14thCentury #Indonesia #Nusantara #Trowulan #History #FexingoHistory #SoutheastAsia Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo