Promulgated in 653 AD, The Tang Code (Tanglü Shuyi) remains one of the most significant legal documents in history. It served as a comprehensive penal code that balanced strict Legalist punishments with Confucian moral principles, prioritizing social harmony and filial piety.
The "Ten Abominations"
The Code defined Shi-e (Ten Abominations)—crimes so severe they were beyond pardon. These included treason, sedition, and unfilial acts against parents, reflecting the dynasty's commitment to protecting the state and the family unit as the twin pillars of civilization.