Luz (bone)

Luz (bone)

The Luz is a small bone in the human body, often referred to in Jewish tradition. The Luz bone, also known as the os sacrum or sacrum, is a large, triangular bone at the base of the spine and at the upper and back part of the pelvic cavity, where it is inserted like a wedge between the two hip bones. Its upper part connects with the last lumbar vertebra, and bottom part with the coccyx (tailbone).

File:Sacrum - anterior view.png

Anterior view of the sacrum, also known as the Luz bone

Anatomy

The Luz bone is curved upon itself and placed very obliquely. It presents a base for articulation with the vertebral column and an apex for articulation with the coccyx. The base projects forward as the sacral promontory internally, and articulates with the last lumbar vertebra to form the promontory of the sacrum. The central part is curved outward toward the posterior, allowing greater room for the pelvic cavity.

In Jewish Tradition

In Jewish tradition, the Luz bone is considered indestructible and is the bone from which the body will be rebuilt at the time of resurrection. The Talmud states that it cannot be destroyed by fire, water, or even the digestive system. It is said to be the bone from which the body is reconstructed in the resurrection process known as T'chiyat HaMeytim.

Clinical Significance

The Luz bone, being part of the spine, is involved in a number of spinal disorders such as sacral agenesis, sacralization of the lumbar vertebra, and coccydynia. It can also be affected by various infections, tumors, and traumatic injuries.

See Also

• Sacrum
• Spine
• Pelvic cavity
• Coccyx
• T'chiyat HaMeytim