Under the Code of Hammurabi, which dates back to around 1754 BC in ancient Babylon, theft was addressed with strict penalties reflecting the law's emphasis on social order and property rights. The punishments for stealing varied depending on the circumstances of the theft, such as the value of the stolen goods and whether the thief was a common citizen or a member of a higher social class.
Here are a few key points about the punishment for stealing as per the Code:
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Restitution: One of the primary forms of punishment for theft was the requirement to pay restitution. The thief was often required to repay the value of the stolen item multiple times over. For instance, if someone stole sheep, the repayment could be set at several times the sheep’s value.
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Severity of the crime: The nature of the theft influenced penalties. For example, theft involving personal property could result in harsher penalties than theft of agricultural goods.
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Death Penalty: For particularly serious thefts, such as stealing from a temple or involving violence, the penalty could be as severe as death. This highlighted the importance placed on protecting property and public order.
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Social Class Considerations: The punishments could also vary based on the social status of the individuals involved. Theft by a person of higher status could result in different consequences compared to a commoner.
The overall approach of the Code of Hammurabi reflects a system designed to protect property rights and deter theft through clear and often severe consequences.