The ancient text considered one of the earliest legal codes in history is the Code of Hammurabi, dating back to around 1754 BC. This Babylonian law code was inscribed on a stone stele and is one of the oldest deciphered writings of significant length. It consists of 282 laws that cover various aspects of daily life, including trade, marriage, theft, and labor. The code is well-known for its principle of "an eye for an eye," emphasizing retributive justice. The Code of Hammurabi influenced legal systems in the ancient world and provides insight into the social, economic, and legal principles of Mesopotamian society.