The first principle of Pancasila, “Ketuhanan Yang Maha Esa,” or the Belief in One Almighty God, holds a foundational position as the spiritual and moral bedrock for the entire Indonesian nation. This phrase is not merely an acknowledgment of God’s existence but carries profound implications for national life.
“Ketuhanan Yang Maha Esa” recognizes and respects the existence of One Almighty God as the creator and ruler of the universe. This acknowledgment permeates all the values and principles in the other tenets of Pancasila, providing a spiritual dimension to social, national, and state life.
This first principle encourages tolerance and harmony among religious communities. While acknowledging the One Almighty God, Pancasila guarantees the freedom of every citizen to embrace their respective religions and beliefs and to worship according to their convictions.
“Ketuhanan Yang Maha Esa” also serves as a source of ethics and morality in national life. Noble values such as honesty, justice, compassion, and responsibility are believed to originate from the teachings of the religions and beliefs adhered to by Indonesian society.
This first principle rejects all forms of atheism and radical secularism that seek to eliminate the role of religion in public life. Pancasila recognizes the importance of religion and belief as moral and spiritual pillars of the nation.
The implementation of “Ketuhanan Yang Maha Esa” in national life is reflected in various policies and laws that guarantee religious freedom and facilitate the religious life of society. This principle underpins the nation’s commitment to spiritual values.
This foundational principle also encourages dialogue and cooperation among religious communities in building a developed and harmonious nation. Awareness of the One Almighty God becomes a basis for unity amidst the diversity of beliefs.d
Thus, “Ketuhanan Yang Maha Esa” is not just a phrase in the state ideology but a spiritual foundation that binds the entire Indonesian nation in noble values, tolerance, and unity within the diversity of religions and beliefs, shaping the nation’s identity.