The ancient text that outlines the laws and punishments of the Babylonian Empire is the Code of Hammurabi. This code, dating back to around 1754 BCE, is one of the oldest deciphered writings of significant length and established a legal framework based on justice and retribution. It consists of 282 laws covering various aspects of daily life, including trade, family, and labor, indicating the importance of social order in Babylonian society. The principle of "an eye for an eye" is often highlighted, reflecting a focus on proportionality in justice. Its influence extends through history as an early example of a written legal system.