Piety. In the ancient Near East, a pious person was one who told the truth, avoided blasphemy, gave charity, and avoided controversy. These actions by themselves were nevertheless insufficient without constant devotion to sacrifice and prayer. These concepts were expressed in a series of Wisdom texts. In one text, Counsels of Wisdom, a wise man instructs his "son" about piety.

Every day worship your god
Sacrifice and benediction are the proper accompaniment of incense
Present your free-will offering to your god,
For this is proper toward the gods.
Prayer, supplication, and prostration
Offer him daily, and you will get your reward
Then you will have full communion with your god. (Lambert)

Moral Code. The modern maxim "Don't rock the boat" was an idea expressed throughout Mesopotamian history. One sought to live a cautious quiet life without discord, aspiring to success without change. This pragmatic...