The Stele of Hammurabi

Definition

The Stele of Hammurabi is a large stone monument inscribed with one of the earliest and most complete written legal codes, known as Hammurabi's Code, created by King Hammurabi of Babylon around 1754 BCE. This stele not only served as a legal document but also as a symbol of the king's authority, showcasing the principle of justice and the rule of law in the Babylonian Empire.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Stele of Hammurabi is made from diorite, a hard stone, and stands about 7.4 feet tall, making it an imposing presence that was meant to be seen by the public.
2. Hammurabi's Code consists of 282 laws covering a wide range of issues including trade, family relations, and criminal justice, with a focus on retribution and social order.
3. The stele features a bas-relief carving depicting Hammurabi receiving the laws from Shamash, the sun god, emphasizing the divine origin of his authority.
4. The principle of 'an eye for an eye' is famously associated with Hammurabi's Code, illustrating the concept of proportional justice prevalent in ancient Babylon.
5. The stele was originally erected in Babylon but has been relocated to the Louvre Museum in Paris, where it continues to be studied for its historical significance.

Review Questions

• How did the Stele of Hammurabi reflect the social structure and values of Babylonian society?
  • The Stele of Hammurabi reflects the hierarchical nature of Babylonian society through its legal codes that often differentiated punishments based on social class. For example, laws prescribed harsher penalties for offenses against higher-class individuals compared to lower-class ones. This illustrates how social status played a significant role in legal proceedings and outcomes during Hammurabi's reign, reinforcing the power dynamics present in Babylonian culture.
• In what ways did Hammurabi's Code influence modern legal systems?
  • Hammurabi's Code laid foundational concepts for later legal systems by introducing written laws that were publicly displayed, ensuring transparency and accountability. Its emphasis on clearly defined laws and consequences influenced how modern legal frameworks operate. Additionally, principles such as proportional justice found in Hammurabi's Code can still be observed in contemporary legal practices that aim for fairness in punishment and restitution.
• Evaluate the significance of the Stele of Hammurabi as both a legal document and a symbol of authority in ancient Babylon.
  • The Stele of Hammurabi holds immense significance as it not only codified laws that governed daily life but also served as a powerful symbol of Hammurabi’s legitimacy and authority as king. By presenting himself as a ruler chosen by the gods to enforce justice, Hammurabi reinforced his divine right to govern. The stele’s visibility ensured that all citizens were aware of their rights and responsibilities under his rule, thus promoting social order while elevating his status as a protector of his people through law.

Related terms

Hammurabi's Code: A set of laws established by King Hammurabi that aimed to regulate various aspects of daily life and ensure justice within the Babylonian society.

Mesopotamia: An ancient region located between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, often referred to as the 'Cradle of Civilization,' where early cultures and empires, including Babylon, emerged.

Legalism: A political philosophy emphasizing strict adherence to laws and regulations, which is reflected in Hammurabi's Code as a means to maintain order and justice.