Scorpion Venom Peptides in Ophthalmology: Insights from the Babylonian Talmud

Historical medical texts can reveal overlooked therapeutic approaches relevant to modern ophthalmology. This perspective revisits a remedy from the Babylonian Talmud prescribing a mixture of scorpion and kohl for an eye condition called buruqti (also transliterated as beroketi), traditionally translated as cataract. Through philologic, zoologic, and pathologic analysis, we argue that buruqti likely refers to a corneal or conjunctival lesion rather than a true lens opacity. The description within the remedy of the scorpion’s “seven-beaded tail” is interpreted symbolically within the cultural and mystical framework of Late Antiquity. This ancient preparation, although not adopted in later medical texts, raises intriguing possibilities for the use of arachnid venom peptides in ocular disease. These peptides possess antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and antiangiogenic properties with emerging potential for treating inflammatory and degenerative eye disorders. This article highlights the intersection of historical scholarship and modern biomedical research, suggesting that ancient remedies can inspire novel pharmacologic strategies. We thereby aim to expand the conceptual horizons of ophthalmic drug discovery and encourage exploration of venom-derived peptides as next-generation therapeutics.