'Codes of Hammurabi and Moses' Summary

William W. Davies' 'Codes of Hammurabi and Moses' delves into a fascinating comparative study of two pivotal legal systems of antiquity. The book juxtaposes the Code of Hammurabi, a remarkable collection of Babylonian laws inscribed on a black stone pillar, with the Mosaic Law, a foundational set of principles in Judaism and Christianity. Davies examines the structure, content, and implications of both codes, revealing intriguing parallels and striking contrasts in their approach to justice, social order, and divine authority. He explores the historical contexts surrounding the creation of these laws, analyzing the societal norms, cultural values, and religious beliefs that shaped their development. The book sheds light on the evolution of legal thought in ancient Mesopotamia and the Levant, highlighting the enduring influence of these ancient legal systems on subsequent legal and social structures.