Reasons for the Stelas

Chapter Eight describes the characteristics of the Code of Hammurabi and the specific laws that it consists. A key characteristic of the stela is the usefulness of it. De Mieroop states that, verdicts were based off of “common sense” “No legal justification such as reference to a law or to a precedent, was needed” (108). The question of what exactly was the reason behind the creation of these tablets is in question.

De Mieroop does not seem to give any clear –cut, possible explanations as to why the Hammurabi has these set of codes but reading the evidence it is possible infer certain potential reasons for them. He mentions that in the epilogue Hammurabi has to audiences he addresses to, the people and future kings. An excerpt from the epilogue that is directed to his “people” audience is, “Let a wronged man who has a court case come to the statue of me as King of Justice… let my stela make his court case clear to him…” (110). It is possible that Hammurabi wanted his codes to be supreme and the standard for the people under his rule. He probably believed that his codes were the most just and fair. And being a king he probably had his subjects at his best interest he wanted everyone to be treated fairly. If everyone follows these standards then everyone will be at peace and no conflict can arise because it can be dealt with following the codes of the stelas.

By this time Hammurabi has conquered many kingdoms and so having such a vast kingdom that is composed of other kingdoms that were previously ruled by different kings, the codes is a good way to have easier control over all of the lands having everyone under the same laws. This creates uniformity in the courts and among the people. This forces the people to follow his rules and reduces conflict between him and his newly conquered kingdoms. This law can help with the future kings and can ensure that what Hammurabi has created can last for many future generations. This was probably a huge concern for him was making sure that his kingdom will last and thrive after his death. In his epilogue he specifically states that he wants future kings rule the people the way he wants the people to be ruled, “May he guide his people correctly… remove the evil and wicked…make his people happy” (110). Here Hammurabi seems to have the best interest of his people and for the future of his kingdom and these codes are his way of attempting to ensure a successful future for his kingdom.