Reform Edict of Urukagina (2350 BCE)
Explanation and Analysis of the Document
By abolishing former abusive customs and replacing them with new precepts through the Reform Edict, Urukagina evidently proclaimed a general amnesty in Lagash (written “Lagaš” in the text) concerning the old precepts. He furthermore established divine ownership over estates that had been administered by members of the royal family. He also claimed to have changed the taxes collected on special occasions, such as weddings, divorces, and funerals.
The text of the first and most complete version of the reforms appears to consist of four parts. The first section is the introduction and dedication to Urukagina's god, Ningirsu (written “Ningirsu”), with a brief note about building projects and dedications. Second, Urukagina outlines various abuses committed by previous monarchs (primarily concerning the appropriation of temple property). He next describes his own elevation to kingship and the new practices that were then introduced. He...
