Significance of Tongue consciousness
Tongue consciousness is a key concept in both Mahayana and Theravada traditions, referring to the consciousness that arises from the tongue's interaction with flavors. In Mahayana, it encompasses aspects of tasting and speech, illustrating how effective communication of dharma can lead to enlightenment. In Theravada, tongue consciousness is primarily focused on the sensory experience of taste. Both traditions emphasize its significance in discerning tastes and its broader implications for understanding consciousness and communication.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Tongue consciousness'
Tongue consciousness in Buddhism encompasses speech and communication's role in enlightenment, the perception of flavors, and the discernment of tastes, emphasizing the connection between taste awareness and effective dharma proclamation.
From: Visuddhimagga (the pah of purification)
(1) Consciousness that pertains to the sense of taste.[1] (2) The aspect of consciousness that arises when the tongue detects tastes.[2] (3) Tongue-consciousness is characterized by the quality of tasting and involves the interaction between the tongue and flavours.[3]
From: A Manual of Abhidhamma
(1) Consciousness arising from taste.[4]
From: The Doctrine of Paticcasamuppada
(1) The awareness related to taste sensations.[5]
From: Abhidhamma in Daily Life (by Ashin Janakabhivamsa)
(1) Tongue-consciousness, or jivha vinnana, arises from the sensitive part of the tongue (jivhapasada) engaging with tastes.[6]
From: Shurangama Sutra (with commentary) (English)
(1) A concept illustrating the ability to speak dharma clearly and effectively, leading to enlightenment.[7] (2) The aspect of consciousness related to speech and communication, through which Purnamaitreyaniputra achieves enlightenment by proclaiming the dharma.[8] (3) The awareness or recognition that arises through the interaction of the tongue with flavors, allowing for the discernment of tastes.[9] (4) The consciousness that arises from the tongue organ distinguishing flavors, resulting in a perception of pleasant or disgusting tastes.[10]
From: Apadana commentary (Atthakatha)
(1) The awareness or recognition of taste that the cook inferred the king did not possess.[11]