İKİNCİ FEN · İKİNCİ BÂB · İKİNCİ FASIL · Dördüncü Madde
Fourth Article
Concerning the Rib Bones.
O, esteemed one! Know that anatomists have stated: The rib bones were created to protect the respiratory organs and the upper portions of the digestive organs which they encompass. To avoid burdening them, so that harm to one does not extend to the whole, when the stomach filled with gases requires a spacious area, in order to open easily [117/b], and to separate the chest muscles assigned to the work of breathing, the ribs are formed as individual bones, and not all as a single bone.
The sternum encompasses the heart, considered the leader of the body’s organs, and the other organs attached to it. Because harm to these precious organs has a very significant effect, it is necessary to protect them with care and caution. Therefore, the upper ribs, within themselves, unite over the respiratory system organs in the chest region, completely encompassing it from all directions to protect the chief organ (the heart). The lower ribs, which are close to the digestive organs, act as a shield taken from behind, protecting the liver, spleen, and other organs that are not adjacent but separated by degrees. Thus, the ends of the upper ribs are closer together, while those of the lowest ones are farther apart. In this way, the space for the stomach is wide so that it does not cause difficulty or distress when filled with digestion and respiration.
The seven upper ribs are called “true ribs.” These are seven ribs from each direction, with the two in the middle being the largest and longest, while those at the ends are short. This form has been found to best encompass the respiratory organs from all sides. These ribs first incline downwards on their prominences, then turn upwards to attach to the sternum, so that the space they enclose expands. As mentioned, two projections from each of these ribs enter the two internal vertebrae on each side of the spine, forming a double-jointed articulation. The connections of these seven true ribs with the rib cage bones are shaped like their connections with the vertebral bones.
The remaining five short ribs are called “false ribs” and "floating ribs." Their heads are protected by cartilage, keeping them away from collisions and safe from breakage. They are balanced between firmness and softness, reaching soft organs through cartilaginous bodies without causing harm. The rib cage is composed of seven bones. It is known that it is not a single bone for lightness. It is connected by soft cartilage and its joints are created firmly, so that they may readily assist when the respiratory organs expand. Their numbers are seven, equal to the number of ribs adjacent to them. A wide, cartilaginous bone attaches to the bottom of the sternum, whose underside is circular and resembles a dagger, hence it is known as the "dagger bone." Its benefits are: protecting the stomach, settling between the sternum and the soft organs, and establishing connection in uniting firmness with softness.
“We glorify Allah, who created everything and gave it the most beautiful form, far removed from all imperfections.” His glory is exalted.