HIST-132: Code of Hammurabi

Divine mandate and self-description: Anu the Sublime and Bel appoint Hammurabi, the exalted prince, to bring about the rule of righteousness in the land and to destroy the wicked and the evil-doers; so that the strong should not harm the weak; so that Hammurabi should rule over the black-headed people like Shamash, and enlighten the land to further the well-being of mankind.
Divine legitimacy and patronage: Hammurabi depicts himself as favored by the gods, enriched by divine support, and committed to daily devotions to Marduk in Saggil; Shamash assists him; the kingdom is described as Babylon’s everlasting glory.
Titles and accomplishments (summary): A long roll of royal titles and deeds emphasizes his breadth of kingship—builder and restorer of cities and temples, enhancer of water, wealth, and worship, and a protector of national unity across the land; includes initiatives that enriched Ur, Uruk, Nippur, Lagash, and other cities, and reestablished religious centers.
Purpose of kingship: To rule with justice and righteousness, protect the oppressed, and ensure welfare for mankind; central aim is to enforce divine-ordained justice and maintain order.
Thematic emphasis: Divine sanction for law, restoration of sacred spaces, and the king’s role as guardian of the realm and upholder of law and morality.

Kingship grounded in divine sanction (Anu, Bel, Marduk) and royal duty to implement righteousness.
The king’s mission: destroy evil, protect the weak, and enlighten the land for the well-being of all.
Law as a vehicle for justice and social order, with the king as the enforcer and guarantor.

Legitimacy through the gods: The king’s authority flows from divine will.
Rule of righteousness and protection of the vulnerable: Core ethical aim is to prevent the strong from oppressing the weak.
Welfare and universal governance: Efforts span multiple cities and temples, aiming at the common good across the land.