The Signs of a Good King

At the beginning of chapter 7, Van De Mieroop notes that Hammurabi was “the ruler of a large territory that incorporated several previously independent states” (79). He also signifies that this very kingdom stretches 200 kilometers south of the Persian Gulf coast from the capital. It is apparent that Hammurabi is an influential figure, a person that is looked at to have some sort of authority and power. However, the king did a lot to gain this power. On page 84, Van De Mieroop describes that the king was responsible for many things: from grander projects to repairing temple building, to paying for fancy thrones, chariots and statues.

But what does it take to be a good king? According to Van De Mieroop, the gods chose the king to be in charge of the land and once they were pleased with the appointed king’s duties, they would provide prosperity to the land in return. Thus, it is fair to say that Hammurabi was a good leader. He was able to capture the southern region and developed Babylon into a political center. The people in Hammurabi’s kingdom prospered as a result of his hard work and determination. For example, in chapter 8, “Hammurabi, the Lawgiver, it is mentioned that Hammurabi viewed himself as a king, “one who protects his people, especially the weak among them, from injustice and abuse by the powerful” (101).