The top of the stele that contains the Code of Hammurabi

The top of the stele that contains the Code of Hammurabi. The sun god Shamash, the god of justice, is depicted conveying authority to the king. Hammurabi (standing) holds his hand over his mouth as a sign of reverence. “So, when Gentiles, who do not by nature have the law, do what the law demands, they are a law to themselves even though they do not have the law. They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts. Their consciences confirm this. Their competing thoughts either accuse or even excuse them on the day when God judges what people have kept secret, according to my gospel through Christ Jesus” (2:14-16).