In Babylon's grand and ancient reign,
Stood Hammurabi, king with mind so keen,
Whose wisdom, vast as Tigris' flow,
Brought forth a code, the world to know.
From Euphrates' banks to distant lands,
His rule spread far, a just command,
He sought to tame the chaos wild,
And forge a realm, in order, mild.
"Ye subjects, gather near and hear,
The laws I bring to quell your fear,
No more shall darkness rule the day,
For light and justice find their way."
With chisel firm and steadfast hand,
On stele of stone, his words did land,
So all could read and understand,
The rules that governed this vast land.
From crime and trade to family ties,
No aspect of life did he disguise,
He laid them bare for all to see,
Laws etched in stone for eternity.
"Hear me, O Babylon, and take heed,
My words, a guide for all in need,
Let fairness reign and justice thrive,
Through these commands, our land shall rise."
A king of might and wisdom true,
His legacy, forever to imbue,
The Code of Hammurabi stands tall,
A testament to justice, for one and all
By Greg McNeilly
