İKİNCİ FEN · İKİNCİ BÂB · ÜÇÜNCÜ FASIL · Beşinci Madde
Fifth Article
Concerning the hip and thigh bones.
O, esteemed one! Know that anatomists have stated: Among the bones of the body is the hip bone. It consists of two bones on the right and left sides of the coccyx, joined to each other with a strong joint in the middle of the coccyx. These are the foundation upon which all the aforementioned upper region bones are built. Similarly, they are also the bearers and supporters of all the lower region bones.
Each of the two hip bones is divided into four parts. The one on the upper and outer side is named the ilium and ischial bone [574]. The ones on the front are called the pubic bone (azm-i âne). The ones on the back are referred to as the vertebral bone (azm-ı verek) [575]. The ones on the inside and below are named the acetabulum (hokka’l-fahz), for within them are depressions where the rounded heads of the two hip bones fit. Delicate organs such as the male genitalia (âlât-i menî), uterus, anus, and bladder are placed within the inner side of the pelvis. The benefit of the two legs is twofold. One serves to stand and remain upright; this is accomplished by these two feet. The other is for ascending, descending, and moving on level ground. These movements can be achieved through the legs and hips. If harm comes to the foot, standing becomes difficult (though if the damage isn't severe enough to require a support), walking occurs easily. If harm comes to the calf and hip muscles, standing is easy, but walking becomes difficult.
The first of the leg bones are the two thigh bones. The thigh bone is the largest bone in the body, for one bears what lies above it and the other carries what lies below. The upper sides of these two bones are rounded like a dome and fit into the depression called hukku’l-verek. These two bones are formed with a prominence on the front and upper side, a hollow and notch on the back and lower side. Thus, they securely protect large muscles, nerves, and numerous vessels, producing a straight and proper form with which sitting becomes beautiful.
If these were placed flatly at the level of hukku’l-verek, the distance between the two thigh bones would be immeasurably wide and become crooked. On the lower side of these two bones are two protrusions each for the knee joints. We will explain the calf bone before the knee joint, so that the calf bone may be understood and then the knee joint better comprehended.