The Goring Ox in Near Eastern Laws

Abstract

I have chosen this particular topic for discussion not so much because of its intrinsic interest, but rather because of the opportunity it gives us to see ancient Near Eastern sources in their interrelationship. Let me commence with some words of introduction concerning the sources which will be considered. These are altogether four: the Laws of Eshnunna (LE), the Code of Hammurabi (CH), the biblical Book of the Covenant, and finally the Talmud. Between them they extend over some 2,000 years or more; nevertheless, it is my submission that not only may they be compared with profit, but even that there are some actual links which connect them. The city of Eshnunna is situated to the East of the Tigris, on the bank of its tributary, the Diyala. The kingdom occupied an important strategic position between Assyria (in the North), Babylon (in the West), Isin and Larsa (in the South), and Elam (in the East). Much of its history is as yet uncertain, and it is not my intention, nor am I competent, to trace the fluctuating fortunes of the kingdom, the victories and defeats of its rulers. Eshnunna finally fell victim to the expansionist policies pursued with success by Hammurabi of Babylon, during the fourth decade of his reign.

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