The Code of Hammurabi

Definition

The Code of Hammurabi is a set of laws created by the Babylonian king Hammurabi around 1754 BCE. It consists of 282 laws that cover various aspects of life, including family, property, and commerce.

Related terms

Basalt:

Basalt is a type of volcanic rock that was used to carve the stele (stone slab) on which The Code of Hammurabi was inscribed.

Shamash: Shamash was the Mesopotamian sun god who was considered the divine authority behind The Code of Hammurabi. He represented justice and fairness in enforcing the laws.

Cuneiform:

Cuneiform is a system of writing used by ancient civilizations in Mesopotamia, including the Babylonians. The Code of Hammurabi was written in cuneiform script on the stele made from basalt.