Unity Faith Discipline: How Jinnah’s Motto Was Changed and Why It Still Matters?
The article explores the evolution and politicization of Pakistan’s founding motto—Unity, Faith, Discipline—originally articulated by Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Historical Timeline
1941–1948: Jinnah repeatedly emphasized the sequence “Unity, Faith, Discipline” in speeches and official communications.
1977–1988: Under General Zia-ul-Haq, the motto was subtly reordered to “Faith, Unity, Discipline,” reflecting a shift toward religious identity over national cohesion.
Post-Zia Era: Attempts were made to restore the original order, including a brief correction on Islamabad Highway in 2011, but the altered version persisted.
Key Insights
Jinnah’s use of “faith” referred to belief in the Pakistan movement—not religious zeal.
The reordering by Zia’s regime was part of a broader Islamization strategy.
Scholars like Ayesha Jalal and Sibte Hasan highlighted the ideological implications of this change.
The motto’s sequence influences national priorities—unity was meant to come first to bind a divided people.
Conclusion
Restoring the original motto isn’t just symbolic—it’s a call for historical honesty and a reaffirmation of Jinnah’s vision for a united, disciplined, and forward-looking Pakistan.
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