The sclera, the structure that forms the white part of the eye and whose Latin name is ‘sclera’, is a very interesting component both medically and in cultural and mythological contexts. This hard tissue, which surrounds the outer part of the eyeball, maintains the shape of the eye, supports the internal structures and helps control the light entering the eyeball. Medically, it plays an important role in the diagnosis of many eye diseases and disorders. Mythologically and culturally, akbuga is associated with the protective symbolism of the eye and the eye being considered the ‘window of the soul’.

The Place of Akbuga in Medicine

In medicine, the aqueous humour is an important structure that ensures the strength and durability of the eye. This tough tissue, which covers about four-fifths of the eyeball, acts as a barrier that surrounds the cornea and helps protect the internal structures of the eye from external factors. The aqueous humour is composed of collagen fibres, which provide flexibility and strength to the eye. In addition, the colour and structure of the aqueous humour is a critical indicator of certain health conditions. For example, in the case of jaundice, yellowing of the whites can be a symptom of problems with the liver. In addition, inflammation or reddening of the white whites provides important clues in the diagnosis of conditions such as eye infections or autoimmune diseases.

The health of the white bulb is also of great importance for general eye health. Weakening or thinning of the aqueous humour can lead to serious eye diseases such as glaucoma, with increased internal pressure in the eye. In addition, tears or holes in the aqueous humour can lead to serious complications that can cause loss of vision.

Mythological Aspects and Cultural Meaning

In mythological and cultural contexts, the white eye has been regarded as a symbol of the eye's connection to the soul. In ancient Greek and Roman mythologies, the eye was seen as the window of the human soul, and the white part of the eye, the akbuga, was depicted as a reflection of purity and divine light seen through this window. Especially in Greek mythology, the eyes, and especially the white part of the eye, were regarded as a window through which the gods watched people. In mythological stories, the eyes are depicted as symbols of truth and knowledge, and the akbuga, as part of this symbolism, establishes a divine connection with the pure, white part of the eye.

In Turkish and Altai mythology, Akbuga, who is described as the god of medicine, has a snake in his hand, representing knowledge and wisdom, and this snake has been globalised as a symbol of many medical sciences.

In addition, in many cultures, Akbuga has played an important role in eye amulets used for protection from evil spirits and the evil eye. Especially in the Mediterranean region, ‘evil eyes’ in the form of blue beads are depicted with a white centre representing akbuga and a blue ring surrounding it. These amulets were used to ward off evil and protect the owner from evil eyes.

Akbuga and Mythological Figures

In mythological stories, the akbuga has been associated with different gods and figures. For example, in Ancient Egypt, the symbol known as the Eye of Horus was used in a design that included the akbuga and was associated with protection, health and strength. The Eye of Horus was often depicted with a vulture or snake figure, and in these depictions, the akbuga symbolised a divine perspective and an all-seeing eye.

These mythological stories show that the akbuga is not only a medical structure, but also has a deep symbolism in human culture and that the eyes are considered an important part of the human experience. In this context, the akbuga was seen as a barrier that provided both physical and spiritual protection and therefore played an important role in cultural and religious rituals.