OPINION
National Awakening Day (Hari Kebangkitan Nasional), commemorated every May 20, serves as more than a historical milestone to remember the founding of Boedi Oetomo in 1908. Beyond that, National Awakening Day serves as a collective wake-up call for the Indonesian nation to reflect, rise above adversity, ignorance, and division, and continue moving forward. Viewed from a spiritual perspective, the essence of national awakening has a profound connection with the sacred teachings of Hinduism, particularly the concept of transforming self-awareness for the greater good.
Viewed from the Hindu perspective, the awakening of a nation cannot be separated from the awakening of the quality of its people. This philosophical foundation aligns with several sacred principles that can serve as driving forces for nationalism and unity.
1. Identity and the Awareness of Tat Tvam Asi as the Foundation of Unity
One of the greatest challenges in sustaining national awakening is maintaining unity amid diversity. This is where the teaching of Tat Tvam Asi — “You are That” — becomes deeply relevant.
When society understands that every soul (Atman) ultimately originates from the same divine source, Ida Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa (God Almighty), barriers of ethnicity, race, and social groups begin to dissolve. National awakening in the modern context means being able to feel the suffering of fellow citizens as our own suffering and celebrating the nation’s success as a shared achievement. This value fosters sincere empathy and genuine nationalism, rather than nationalism that exists merely as a slogan.
2. Breaking Free from the Chains of Awidya (Lacking Intelligence)
The root of colonialism and national decline often lies in Awidya — darkness or lacking intelligence. In the past, Boedi Oetomo pioneered national awakening through education, striving to enlighten and empower the nation.
Viewed from Hindu teachings, Awidya is considered the greatest enemy that must be overcome in order to attain Jnana (sacred knowledge and wisdom). The Bhagavad Gita teaches that nothing purifies more than knowledge. National awakening today therefore means committing to eradicating modern forms of Awidya: illiteracy, intellectual poverty, and the spread of misinformation and hoaxes that divide society. An enlightened and wise society (Jnanin) is the cornerstone of a sovereign nation.
3. Modern Yajna: Selfless Sacrifice for the Nation
The heroes of Indonesia’s national movement exemplified the concept of Niskama Karma — acting and struggling without personal gain, but for the welfare of society (Lokasamgraha).
In today’s era of nation-building, this concept transforms into Yajna (sacred sacrifice). Becoming a modern-day hero no longer requires bearing arms, but instead fulfilling one’s Swadharma (life duty) professionally and responsibly. Civil servants with integrity, honest entrepreneurs, and creative, accomplished youth are all performing Yajna for the glory of the nation.
Ultimately, National Awakening Day is a moment to reflect on the nation’s noble ideals. Hindu teachings offer a global vision that transcends ego through the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the belief that all humanity is one family beneath the same sky. Howevere, before contributing to global brotherhood, Indonesia must first rise and stand strong as one united nation.
Interpreting National Awakening Day through the lens of Hindu teachings reminds us that outward progress — in the economy, infrastructure, and technology — must be supported by inner awakening through character, morality, and spirituality. When Sradha (faith) and Bhakti (devotion) are firmly rooted within society, the vision of a just, prosperous, and harmonious Indonesia becomes truly attainable.
Let us rise together, kindle the light of knowledge within ourselves, and move forward in harmony for the glory of our motherland.
Moksartham Jagadhita ca iti Dharma.
Editor : I Made Juni Saputra
Photographer : I Gusti Ngurah Sathya Dharma
Contributed and Translated by Muhammad Mahmud Alhushori
