The Hammurabi Stele

The Hammurabi Stele, also known as the Code of Hammurabi, is a well-preserved ancient Babylonian legal text on a basalt stele. Dating back to around 1754 BC, it is one of the oldest deciphered writings of significant length in the world. This ancient code of law was commissioned by King Hammurabi of Babylon to establish rules and standards for governing his people. The stele stands over seven feet tall and is adorned with a relief carving of Hammurabi receiving the laws directly from the god Shamash, the god of justice. The code consists of 282 laws covering a variety of topics including commerce, property, family, criminal acts, and civil law. Each law is written in cuneiform script, the earliest known system of writing. One of the most famous aspects of the Hammurabi Stele is the principle of "an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth." This concept, known as lex talionis, reflects the idea of retributive justice and is a cornerstone of many legal systems throughout history. The Hammurabi Stele provides valuable insights into the social structure, values, and justice system of ancient Babylonian society. It highlights the importance of written laws, fair treatment, and the role of rulers in maintaining order and justice among the people. Today, the Hammurabi Stele is housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris, where it continues to be studied and admired for its historical significance and influence on modern legal systems.

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