What does Hammurabi’s Code tell us about the ancient Babylonian way of life?

Code of Hammurabi refers to a code of law proclaimed by
Babylon King Hammurabi, who ruled from 1792 to 1750 B.C. This code represents revision
of earlier codes such as Sumerian and Akkadian laws, some of which preceded Hammurabi
code by nearly 300 years.

The code has 282 specific legal
provisions. In addition there is a Prologue and an epilogue. The code covers a variety
of subjects such as false accusation, witchcraft, military service, land and business
regulations, family laws, tariffs, wages, trade, loans, and
debts.

Inclusion of such matters in the code indicates
presence of a well developed system of trading, taxation, and family structure. Above
all the code suggests a system of rule of law in Babylon. The law was rather strict,
following the principle of "a tooth for a tooth and an eye for an eye". However, the law
also shows concern for protecting the weak from injustice by the strong. The code also
specifies procedures to be followed in the course of disposing justice. Provisions
relating to slaves clearly indicates existence of
slavery.

The link referred below gives a compete text of
the code translated in English.