book review of the richest man in babylon

Clifton Corbin

Financial Literacy For Parents and Their Kids

The Richest Man in Babylon, The Best Financial Literacy Book Of All Time

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As you would expect, the best financial book of all time will constantly be on financial top ten reading lists. But to be best, it must be on almost everyone’s list. This book is and has been for nearly 100 years. 

Its popularity, longevity and simplicity make a clear case for this book being the best of the best.

If you are looking for another “top 10” list, you are in the wrong place. Instead, this article is here to pay tribute to the best financial literacy book of all time.

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What Is the Best Financial Book of All Time?

The Richest Man in Babylon , published in 1926 by George S. Clason, is the best financial book of all time. It has consistently been suggested reading for anyone who wants to get a handle on their finances.  

The book has been translated into over twenty languages and has sold millions of copies. It was published almost 100 years ago, yet it is still used in high school classrooms today to teach the next generation how to manage their money. 

There are a lot of books on financial literacy , I’ve even written one, but there is no book on financial literacy that even comes close to The Richest Man in Babylon .

Why This Is the Best Financial Literacy Book of All Time

You can scour the internet, go to your local library or bookstore or ask most folks in personal finance the answer to what is the best financial literacy book of all time, and the answer will always be the same. 

Here are just a few of the reasons The Richest Man in Babylon is consistently named on financial literacy reading lists.

• The financial literacy concepts are made easy to understand
• The trials and tribulations are relatable even to a contemporary audience
• The book is written as a series of short stories, making the material very accessible and engaging
• The principles outlined in the book are timeless  

The results will be the same whether you apply this book’s lessons in the 1920s or the 2020s. You will learn to live within your means, understand why that is so critical, and know how to make your money work for you to achieve your financial goals.

While this book is dated, the principles within have stood the test of time.

What Are the Origins of This Book?

George Clason was originally a map maker, who wisely noticed that most people who work and earn a living often have nothing to show for all their hard work. To help remedy this, he started to publish and sell pamphlets to banks about being thrifty and achieving mastery over your money.  

To make the financial literacy content fresh and novel, he set the stories in his pamphlets in Ancient Babylon. He made each one a separate short story or parable, teaching financial lessons.

Eventually, Clason put all the pamphlets into The Richest Man in Babylon .

How to Use The Richest Man In Babylon

Next, you need to apply the first principle of paying yourself first. Again this may seem simple, but it is the first step in mastering your money. Like The Richest Man in Babylon , you will need to master this step and the subsequent steps of living within your means, having your money work for you, and protecting your wealth to ensure you can live comfortably.

The last step is to revisit the book periodically. After a while, the characters will become like old friends. Re-reading the book will motivate you to keep living within your means and also help remind you of where you need to re-assess your personal finance decisions. 

For example, once you have saved for long enough to build an emergency fund, you will need to ensure you have a sound investment strategy for the long haul. Once you have maximized your earning potential, you may want to check to ensure you and your assets are appropriately insured. Use the book as a guide to re-evaluate your financial plan and make any tweaks you may need as you progress along your financial journey.

Room for Improvement

While there is little doubt this book’s principles have stood the test of time, that doesn’t mean this book is perfect. First, you have to remember Clason published The Richest Man in Babylon in 1926. Which means it was written for a very patriarchal society. 

Thankfully we have come a long way since then. But this book’s text is frozen in the 1920s with all the masculine-focused speech that comes with that period.  

Another fault some have with the book is the author’s use of flourishes such as “t hinkest ” and “doeth” to think and do. 

Thankfully there is an updated version of the book that avoids those drawbacks and allows you to focus on the stories that are educational while also being fun and engaging.

The Richest Man in Babylon Review

It is hard to give The Richest Man in Babylon an unbiased review since it was and continues to be such a monumental book for me and many others, but I will do my best.

The book loosely covers the story of Arkad the Richest Man in Babylon as he first learns how to become a wealthy man and later teaches his lessons to friends and family. Each chapter, except for the first two, which need to be read together, are written in fictional Babylonian parables that teach modern-day financial literacy lessons using fictional characters’ financial journeys.

Some of the parables cover the same topic. But given the reinforcing nature of the stories, the repetition does not take away from the book’s enjoyment. The wall of Babylon, chapter 7, is the only parable that falls a bit short in effectively getting across its financial lesson. And it can be difficult at times to get over the author’s literary style, but once you get past his use of -est and -eth at the end of some verb s, the book can be fun to read.

A major drawback of the story is the lack of female characters in the book. Only five women are mentioned in the book and they are all mentioned in reference to a man i.e. a wife, sister, or housekeeper.

It can also be off-putting to read the concept of slavery when speaking about money and people. 

Despite the book’s drawbacks, the principles are universal and provided without judgment. It would be hard not to recommend this book to anyone who wanted to get an introduction to the basics of personal finance.

The Richest Man in Babylon Chapter Summary

Spoiler Alert: If you want to enjoy this book to its fullest, you may want to skip this section. But if you have read the book and want a quick refresh of what each chapter is about, here is a brief The Richest man in Babylon chapter summary.

Chapter I The One Who Desired Gold: Starts with two friends who are commiserating about working hard, but have little to show for their efforts. They decide to seek out help to learn how to become wealthy.

Chapter II The Richest Man in Babylon: We are introduced to Arkad, the richest man in Babylon. He tells his story of how he became rich.

Chapter III Seven Cures for a Lean Purse: The King summons Arkad to teach the people of Babylon to grow their wealth.

Chapter IV How to Attract Good Luck: Arkad debates with students about luck and its place in managing your finances.

Chapter V The Five Laws of Gold: Arkad’s son sets out to become wealthy like his father using the laws of gold.

Chapter VI The Gold Lender of Babylon: A gold lender advises someone who has recently come into money on how to keep and grow what they have.

Chapter VII The Walls of Babylon: A soldier reassures the people of Babylon they are safe.

Chapter VIII The Camel Trader of Babylon: A Camel Trader relays a story of how they worked their way out of debt.

Chapter IX The Clay Tablets from Babylon: A story of two professors writing to each other to demonstrate how the ancient parables can be effective in modern times.

Chapter X The Luckiest Person in Babylon: A merchant explains how hard work is the key to his success.

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The Richest Man in Babylon FAQ

Who Wrote the Richest Man in Babylon ?

George S. Clason

What Is The Richest Man in Babylon about?

Fictional Babylonian parables about personal finance

Who Was the Richest Man in Babylon?

In the fictional book, Arkad is the richest man in Babylon

When Was The Richest Man in Babylon written?

The book was published in 1926, but the stories were originally written as pamphlets and sold to banks.

Is The Richest Man in Babylon a True Story?

No, the book is a fictional story collection based on an ancient city.

Are there any female characters in  The Richest Man in Babylon ?

There are no named characters in the book. The book mentions three wives, a sister, and a housekeeper. 

How Many Pages Is The Richest Man in Babylon?

There are many book reproductions with different trim sizes, but the page count is between 90 and 130.

Is The Richest Man in Babylon a Good Book?

The Richest Man in Babylon is arguably the best book on financial literacy ever written.

Is The Richest Man in Babylon W ritten in Simple English?

Not by today’s standards, the author used a style to create an “ancient” feel that is not simple English.

Is there an updated version of  The Richest Man in Babylon ?

Yes. The Richest Man Person in Babylon is an updated version revised to be easier to read and with a more diverse set of characters, but with the same great stories.

Is This the Only Book You Need on Financial Literacy?

While living the principles of this book will surely put you leaps and bounds ahead of most folks, reading this book alone will only do so much. So even though I will say, hands down, this is one of the best books you can read for financial literacy, it is always good to get a broad perspective. 

It will give you most of the basics of financial literacy and a sense of financial wellness and stability. But when you start to invest, you will need to do your research. Moreover, some strategies exist now that did not when Clason wrote this book. Strategies that can help put you even further ahead. For example, while this book may have been the first to say “Pay yourself first,” it is only recently that we can do so using automatic transfers from one bank account to another. Similarly, spreadsheets and budgeting apps were definitely not mentioned in the book.

So start with The Richest Man in Babylon , but don’t stop there. The more you read and educate yourself on financial literacy principles and tools, the more you will be able to maximize your money, build wealth and reach your financial goals.

Final Thoughts

The Richest Man in Babylon is the best book on financial literacy. It has changed the lives of the people who read it for generations. Reading it can give you the keys to living within your means and saving and investing for the future. The principles in this book are timeless. The stories are universal. If you give it a read it will likely always be one of your favorite books on financial literacy.

Further Reading

The Best Book by Brenè Brown Is Also a Financial Literacy Hidden Gem The Best Books about Financial Literacy | By Category The Ultimate Guide to Talking to Your Kids About Money

10 Tips for Successful Budgeting: How to Stay on Track with Your Finances

How Does ADHD Affect Money Management

Top 10 Allowance Mistakes Parents Make & How to Avoid Them

Building a Healthy Relationship with Money: Tips and Strategies

How do you manage money when you have ADHD?

• Book Review

Book Summary and Review: The Richest Man in Babylon

• The Professor
• March 20, 2020

One of the most important aspects of improving your personal financial habits is to learn as much as you can. One of the best ways to learn is to read great books on personal finance. "The Richest Man in Babylon" by George S. Clason is one of the books most often mentioned by those who have pursued financial freedom. Even though it was written in 1920, it's 7 rules of money acquisition still hold true today. In fact, Mr. Clason sets his story in Ancient Babylon, and the rules of money back then still hold true today! I will include a summary of each chapter in regular print and then my thoughts and review in italics.

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This book is a must have for the personal finance community.

Chapter 1 - The Man Who Desired Gold

Mr. Clason's style of writing does take a little getting used to at first. It is written in the perspective of a shield maker in Ancient Babylon named Bansir. The story starts with Bansir discussing how to get gold (their currency) with his good musician friend Kobbi. Bansir complains of having to toil every day to earn his money and then it is all soon spent and he has to go back to work to earn more. He has dreams of his purse full of gold coins that replenish themselves without him slaving at his task each day. Bansir thinks of his old friend, Arkad, who has become the richest man in all of Babylon. So rich, in fact, that Bansir thinks out loud that if he were to meet him in a dark alley, that might steal his wallet and the gold inside. Kobbi rebukes him with an important lesson, "Nonsense, a man's wealth is not in the purse he carries. A fat purse quickly empties if there be no golden stream to refill it. Arkad has an income that constantly keeps his purse full, no matter how liberally he spends."  Bansir decides that he will bring a group of men who work an honest living but no riches to seek the counsel of Arkad to learn how they can also attain these income streams.

Doesn't this sound like many of us? We go to our jobs day after day to earn money, but after we pay our bills, there is not much money left, so back to work to continue earning income. Don't we all wish for other streams of income that do not require us to put time and effort into, passive income streams!

Chapter 2 - The Richest Man in Babylon

Bansir gathers a group of friends and visits with Arkad asking how he has been able accumulate such wealth. They had all shared the same teachers and played the same games as children and yet none of these other men had been able to do so. Arkad explains that these riches are there for every man to enjoy. The difference is that he learned the laws that govern the building of wealth while Bansir and his friends did not. This was something that Arkad learned from the moneylender, Algamish. Arkad tells the others of his years of learning from Algamish and how he was able to accumulate great wealth. He shares with them the 7 rules of gaining wealth. Some of the men question and doubt that it could be this easy to gain wealth.

Herein lies one of the most difficult things for many people to do; ask others for help. If you know someone else that is successful in an area you are not, ask them how they were able to achieve that success. The answer may be easy, or it may be difficult, but realize that it will probably take work on your part. If it didn't, everyone would do it. This is one thing that I have really taken to heart. I've spoken to a couple of good friends that I consider much more successful in accumulating money than I have. They have been great in teaching me the principles that they have used to grow their wealth. My path may not rise as rapidly as theirs due to their main source of income being much higher than my teaching salary, but I can apply their principles on a smaller scale.

Chapter 3 - Seven Cures for a Lean Purse

Babylon became the wealthiest city in the world. Babylon conquered its enemies, but the Royal Chancellor explained to King Sargon that the people seemed unable to support themselves. All of the gold in the city had found its way to a handful of men. Not through any treachery or deceit, but because most men didn't know the rules of accumulating gold. The king asked the richest man in the city, Arkad, to hold a class to teach the men of Babylon the ways of gold. Arkad explained to all the men in the class that he started out with very little and was able to accumulate much by following these rules of wealth. 

The First Cure - Start thy purse to fattening

Arkad explained that the first step to building wealth was to keep 1/10th of what you earn for yourself. He instructed them to set aside this money before paying any bills or buying any items. Arkad explained that it might seem simple, but the truth is always simple.

The Second Cure - Control thy expenditures

Arkad explained that men are burdened with more desires than they can satisfy. He showed how some of the men in the class earned more than others but their purses were as lean as those that earned far less. Arkad told them a very true fact of life, "That what each of us calls our 'necessary expenses' will always grow equal to our incomes unless we protest to the contrary." He challenged them to all list the things that they wanted to spend on and only select those that fit into their 9/10s of their income. They were NOT to touch the 1/10th that they were to keep in their purse.

The Third Cure - Make they gold multiply

As class went on, Arkad proceeded to the third cure. By this time, the men had started to "fatten their purses" by saving 1/10th of what they earned and not spending more than 9/10ths of their income. Now it was time to make that gold they had saved start to earn more money. Each of these gold coins was put to use in investments to earn more gold coins. This was done to ensure a stream of wealth coming in without work.

The Fourth Cure - Guard they treasures from loss

Arkad continued with his fourth cure by explaining that a man must learn to protect the small amount of gold in their purses before the Gods will entrust them with more. Men with gold are often tempted by investing in extravagant opportunities that will grow their wealth. Arkad explained that his first investment was foolish as he trusted a brick maker with his savings to buy rare jewels that they would share the profits in. The brick maker knew nothing of jewels and his treasure was lost. Your treasure should only be invested where you have knowledge or have sought the knowledge of those with experience. Protect your treasure from unsafe investments.

The Fifth Cure - Make of thy dwelling a profitable investment

Arkad's fifth cure was to explain to the men that they should own their own homes instead of paying a landlord high rents for a home that is not their own. Owning your home grows your wealth.

The Sixth Cure - Insure a future income

Arkad explained that all men age and that a man should prepare for those days when he will no longer be able to perform the physical work of earning income. A man should secure investments that will provide for his family an income in his older years.

The Seventh Cure - Increase thy ability to earn

Arkad concludes his cures with one of the most vital cures of a lean purse. This lesson is not about gold but about each man themselves. Each man should improve their skills and abilities to increase their income.

This chapter is where the "meat" of this book lies. It is in these "cures" for a lean purse that show us what we need to do to improve our financial situation. All of these cures can apply to our way of earning and spending today. The only cure that some may argue against today might be owning your own home. Some people today believe that renting can be cheaper than owning a home simply because you don't have the unexpected costs of home ownership like a broken furnace or water heater as a renter. This money is then invested into other profitable ventures. Outside of that, I believe that all of these cures, however simple or generic they may seem, can put you on a path to financial success.

Chapter 4 - Meet the Goddess of Good Luck

Arkad completes his class with the men of Babylon and continues to teach his knowledge to the people of Babylon in the Temple of Learning. One day a man comes to him to tell of a very lucky circumstance of finding a purse containing gold. He wishes to continue to be this lucky to find gold and asks Arkad how this can be so. Arkad poses the question of good luck as it applies to the gaming (gambling) tables. Surely this is where most men claim good luck to be found, yet none of the men, including Arkad, could claim to ever having found luck at these places. Arkad claimed that none of the wealthy men of Babylon could credit their success with the gaming tables. Their success came from honorable skills and trades by which they earned their gold. Arkad posed a question of how many had seen good luck within their grasp only to see it escape. Many of the men offered that they had. One man explained that when he was young his father had implored him to enter into an investment of barren land above the city which water could not reach. A friend had devised a plan to build waterwheels that would raise waters to the soil. The man being of young age instead spent his money on beautiful new robes from the East. The venture proved most profitable and the man regretted many years not joining the enterprise allowing good luck to escape him. Arkad explained that "good luck waits to come to that man who accepts opportunity." Another man arose to speak of a disappointing return to the city after a journey in search of camels. The gates of the city were closed and the man was frustrated. An elderly farmer approached the city with a flock of sheep eager to sell and return to his wife who was sick with fever. The buyer eagerly struck a bargain with the old man but they could not count the sheep easily in the dark and the buyer refused to pay. The elderly man was desperate and asked for only two-thirds the price. The buyer was stubborn and would not pay. The next morning the gates opened and four buyers rushed out and purchased the flock at three times the price at which the elderly man had offered the buyer. Thus the buyer had good luck escape him. Arkad explained "Good luck fled from procrastination." Arkad took both of these tales and explained to the rest that "Men of action are favored by the goddess of good luck."

This chapter seems to fit perfectly with what I've seen in the world. We all know people who we believe are "lucky", but do we really notice the action that they took that we were not willing to take? The people I know who seem to have all the "luck" in the world are those who have taken some risks and took action to make their dreams reality. All of us can probably look back at some opportunity that was there for the taking, but for some reason, many times fear, we hesistated and the opportunity was gone. Be a person of action!

Chapter 5 - The Five Laws of Gold

Kalabab tells a story on the laws of gold by posing a question of which you would choose, a bag heavy with gold or a tablet carved with words of wisdom. All of the men of course choose the bag of gold. Arkad says it is true of most men. They ignore the wisdom and take the gold, and in a matter of time the gold is gone and they is no wisdom. "Gold is reserved for those who know it's laws and abide by them." He tells of Arkad, the richest man of Babylon, whom Kalabab knew through his son Nomasir, who had also earned his own riches in the city of Nineveh. Arkad did not believe in the custom of passing your estate to your sons. Arkad explained to Nomasir that he would have to show his father that he was capable of handling his estate and not wasting it. He gave Nomasir a bag of gold and a tablet with the five laws of gold. Nomasir was to leave and return in 10 years to prove that he was worthy of his father's estate. Ten years passed and Nomasir returned to his father. Nomasir explained that he learned a difficult lesson soon after he was leaving his father as he was cheated in a bet on a horse race. His next lesson was when he went into business with a man from Babylon who proved to be a foolish buyer and lost their money. It was at this point that Nomasir read the five laws of gold and put them to heart. The laws were as follows:

The Five Laws of Gold

1. Gold cometh gladly and in increasing quantity to any man who will put by not less than one-tenth of his earnings to create an estate for his future and that of his family.

2. Gold laboreth diligently and contentedly for the wise owner who finds for it profitable employment, multiplying even as the flocks of the field.

3. Gold clingeth to the protection of the cautious owner who invests it under the advice of men wise in its handling.

4. Gold slippeth away from the man who invests it in businesses or purposes with which he is not familiar or which are not approved by those skills in its keep.

5. Gold flees the man who would force it to impossible earnings or who followeth the alluring advice of trickster and schemers or who trusts it to his own inexperience and romantic desires in investment.

Nomasir then got a job managing a crew of slaves at the city walls. He diligently saved one-tenth of his income and this came to the attention of one of the master. The master made an offer of a business opportunity to Nomasir that could prove profitable. Nomasir jumped at the investment and was able to become of a part of this group of men in their investments. This led to Nomasir increasing his wealth and opportunities and he was able to show his father his ability to manage his father's estate wisely. Thus, Nomasir received his father's estate.

This chapter gives us an the early beginnings of the 7 cures. They started as the 5 rules of gold and progressed into the cures. Nomasir's example is a good one of someone who ignored the rules at first and lost everything and once they learned and respected the rules, they were able to turn their fortunes around.

Chapter 6 - The Gold Lender of Babylon

Rodan was a spear maker of Babylon who had just come into some money. The king had been pleased with his new design for spear tips for the Royal Guard. The king rewarded him with 50 gold pieces, but Rodan had no idea what to do with his newfound wealth. He went to the gold lender not to borrow money, but to ask for his advice on lending his gold. Mathon, the money lender, was quite pleased. Usually, men came to him only when they were in need of money. Nobody had come to him for advice. Rodan's sister's husband had asked Rodan to borrow money to start a business to become a rich merchant. Mathon asked if her husband had any knowledge of items or trade. Rodan said he did not. Mathon gave him strong advice that he should not lend money to anyone that does not appear to have the ability to repay. Rodan fretted as to how he should tell his sister that he would not lend her husband the gold. Mathon asked Rodan how many pieces of gold he had saved during his three years of spear making. Rodan answered three pieces. Mathon said surely his sister would not expect Rodan to give away 50 years of his savings to her husband, which is what the 50 gold pieces represented. Rodan had learned to be cautious with his hard earned gold.

This chapter goes back to the idea of only investing your money into investments that you are familiar with or with people who are knowledgeable in such areas. I have experienced this firsthand. Once I had a couple thousand dollars saved away, I decided I was going to invest in the next up-and-coming business, pot stocks. I took that $2,000 and invested in a Canadian company that seemed to be the one that was going to come out on top. That stock today is worth about $300. A tough first lesson...

Chapter 7 - The Walls of Babylon

Banzar was an old guard of the Walls of Babylon. An army had besieged Babylon and was trying with all their might to get in. Each day, people would stop and ask if the walls of the city would hold. To each, Banzar would tell them that the Walls of Babylon would protect them. Finally after three weeks, the attacking army realized that victory was impossible and retreated from the battlefield. The citizens of Babylon celebrated in the streets rejoicing in their victory.

The lesson from this chapter was to show that we need adequate protection from people that would try to take what is ours. There is nobody in life that will care more about your money than you!

Chapter 8 - The Camel Trader of Babylon

Tarkad was a starving. Food was everywhere, yet he had no gold to purchase any. He came across Dabasir, a friend of his fathers that had loaned him money. Dabasir asked for repayment of the loan, but Tarkad claimed that ill fortune had prevented him from being able to repay. Dabasir rebuked him but told Tarkad to come with him so he could tell Tarkad a tale. Dabasir proceeded to tell a tale of being a young man that saw the world through a different color. As a young man, Dabasir had borrowed much money and could not repay it, so he fled Babylon, but he was captured and taken as a slave some time later. During his time as a slave, he learned the value of hard work and was able to convince the daughter of his master that he was a good man. She believed him and allowed him to flee across the desert. For many days he rode in the direction of Babylon until he was on the brink of dehydration. He realized at this time that he had viewed the world in the wrong color. He vowed from that point on that he would repay every person that he had borrowed money from. With this new determination, he continued on with renewed vigor to change his life. Tarkad learned as Dabasir ordered the inn keeper to bring food for his young friend, that "where there is determination, the way can be found."

Too many times in life, people give up at the first sign of adversity. Living life this way prevents us from living our best life. It's up to us to stay focused and determined to work for what we want in life.

Chapter 9 - The Clay Tablets from Babylon

Alfred Shrewsbury was an archaeologist studying some clay tablets that had been found in Mesopotamia. The tablets spoke of a man named Dabasir who learned the lessons of money accumulation that used these lessons to pay off all his debts and amass a great amount of wealth. Alfred, who had much debt, took these lessons and applied them to his own life. Over a period of time, he was able to repay his debt and accumulate enough wealth to live a comfortable life. The lessons that applied in Ancient Babylon still apply today.

This chapter really stresses the idea of debt being the barrier to growing your wealth. This especially applies today with all of our easy credit that is available to everyone. The majority of Americans today have some form of consumer debt; car loans, lines of credit, credit cards. Ask anybody with this kind of debt, and it can seem insurmountable.

Chapter 10 - The Luckiest Man in Babylon

Sharru Nada was the merchant prince of Babylon who was travelling with the grandson of his long-time business partner, Arad Gula. Sharru felt that he owed a great debt to Arad and wanted to help his grandson, Hadan, but he was disturbed by the young man's attitude toward work. Hadan believed that all manual labor was reserved for slaves, not for someone of his place in life. Sharru decided on a plan to show the young man the value of hard work. Sharru recounted to Hadan his beginnings as a slave who learned that the better a slave worked, the better the master treated them. Sharru worked hard enough that he became friends with another hard-working slave, none other than Hadan's grandfather, Arad. Arad had earned enough money through his hard work that he was able to buy his freedom. Some years later, Arad purchased Sharru and freed him to make him his partner. Hadan was shocked at his grandfather's beginnings and realized that he earned his high status through his hard work.

This chapter shows us that no matter where you start in life, you must respect the value of hard work. Work is what gives life meaning and earns the respect of others.

Mr. Clason's book gives us an outline of how each of us can accumulate wealth. The rules are simple, but they are difficult to follow. Our society has stressed the importance of consumer spending, and we fall into the trap. The key is to take the first step. Try to pay yourself first. That first step could be the first step on a path to financial freedom! And as always...

KEEP STACKIN!

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George Clason – The Richest Man In Babylon Book Review

The Richest Man In Babylon by George S. Clason is a classic financial book that I read several years ago and continue to come back to, as the principles in it remain constant.  In fact, many popular finance books such as The Wealthy Barber or The Automatic Millionaire are based on principles from this famous book.

The lessons and principles in The Richest Man In Babylon are pretty simple and to the point.  However, I found the story to be even more interesting.  The book consists of different stories back in the Babylonian days.  One in particular, of a slave that was in debt and extremely poor, who sought out the rich to learn the wisdom and knowledge on how to become wealthy.

The lessons which he had learned and applied to his life were remarkable, and this slave had managed to turn his life around by applying the principles and lessons he had learned.  He had documented everything he had learned and his progress on clay tablets, which were later found in the 1930's by archaeologists and professors at a university.  These professors had then learned of these principles and applied them to their own lives, to also become wealthy and financially abundant.

Whether the stories are true or not, I found them very fascinating.

Here are some of the lessons mentioned:

1- Only seek advice from those that are wise and knowledgeable on the subject.

“Counsel with wise men.  Seek the advice of men whose daily work is handling money.  Let them save you from such an error as I myself made in entrusting my money in the judgment of Azmur, the brickmaker.  A small return and a safe one is far more desirable than risk.”

2- Pay yourself first.  Save 10% or 1/10th of whatever you earn.

“‘I found the road to wealth when I decided that a part of all I earned was mine to keep.'

‘But all I earn is mine to keep, is it not?', I demanded. ‘Far from it,' he replied.  ‘Do you not pay the garment-maker?  Do you not pay the sandal-maker?  Do you not pay for the things you eat?  Can you live in Babylon without spending?  What have you to show for your earnings of the past month?  What for the past year?  Fool!  You pay to everyone but yourself.  Dullard, you labor for others.  As well be a slave and work for what your master gives you to eat and wear.  If you did keep for yourself one-tenth of all you earn, how much would you have in ten years?' “

3- Good luck can be enticed by accepting opportunity.

“Those eager to grasp opportunities for their betterment, do attract the interest of the good goddess.  She is ever anxious to aid those who please her.  Men of action please her best. Action will lead thee forward to the successes thou dost desire.”

“Men of Action Are Favored By the Goddess of Good Luck.”

4- “Better a Little Caution Than a Great Regret.”

5- “We Cannot Afford to be Without Adequate Protection.”

6- “Where the Determination Is, the Way Can Be Found.”

7- Seven-tenths or 70% of what you earn goes towards supporting yourself and your family.

“Therefore seven-tenths of all I earn shall be used to provide a home, clothes to wear, and food to eat, with a bit extra to spend, that our lives be not lacking in pleasure and enjoyment.”

8- Two-tenths or 20% goes towards paying off any debt.

“The plan doth provide that out of my earnings my debts shall be paid. Therefore each time the moon is full, two-tenths of all I have earned shall be divided honorably and fairly among those who have trusted me and to whom I am indebted.  Thus in due time will all my indebtedness be surely paid.”

You may have heard of many of these lessons from other financial books, but know that most of them originated from The Richest Man In Babylon.  In fact, in the Millionaire Mind Intensive they talk about allocating your money in a similar way that George Clason mentions here.  Either way, it's good to hear them again and again to remind yourself of these age-old principles. You may know something intellectually, but DOING it is a whole different story.

Check out more about The Richest Man In Babylon by George S. Clason from Amazon by clicking here .

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The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason

The book in three sentences.

Save at least 10 percent of everything you earn and do not confuse your necessary expenses with your desires. Work hard to improve your skills and ensure a future income because wealth is the result of a reliable income stream. You cannot arrive at the fullest measure of success until you crush the spirit of procrastination within you.

The Richest Man in Babylon summary

This is my book summary of The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason. My notes are informal and often contain quotes from the book as well as my own thoughts. This summary also includes key lessons and important passages from the book.

• The 7 simple rules of money: 1) Start thy purse to fattening: save money. 2) Control thy expenditures: don’t spend more than you need. 3) Make thy gold multiply: invest wisely. 4) Guard thy treasures from loss: avoid investments that sound too good to be true. 5) Make of thy dwelling a profitable investment: own your home. 6) Ensure a future income: protect yourself with life insurance. 7) Improve thy ability to earn: strive to become wiser and more knowledgable.
• To bring your dreams and desires to fulfillment, you must be successful with money.
• The laws of money are like the laws of gravity: assured and unchanging.
• Money is plentiful for those who understand the simple laws of making money.
• Babylon was the wealthiest city in the world at the time of its height because its people appreciated the value of money.
• You must constantly have an income that keeps your purse full.
• “It costs nothing to ask wise advice from a good friend.”
• It’s simple to say, but many people never achieve a serious measure of wealth because they never seek it. They never truly seek it, focus on it, and commit to it.
• Youth often assumes, incorrectly, that the old and wise only have wisdom about days gone by.
• You will only begin building wealth when you start to realize that a part of all the money you earn is yours to keep. That is, pay yourself first. You always pay others for goods and services. Pay yourself as much as you can. Save money.
• You should save at least 1/10th of what you earn. More if you can afford to do so.
• Do not take advice on finance from a brick layer. Go to people who are experts in a particular subject if you want expert advice. It’s too easy for amateurs to give out advice.
• Build for yourself a mountain of gold first, then you can enjoy as many banquets as you wish without worry. Don’t spend your money as soon as you earn it.
• Surround yourself with people who are familiar with money, who work with it each day, and who make lots of it.
• Enjoy life while you are here. Do not overstrain to save.
• Do not put your money in investments which do not pay a dividend, but also do not invest in risky places that seem too good to be true.
• What each person calls their “necessary expenses” will always grow to match your income unless you resist that urge. Do not confuse your necessary expenses with your desires.
• “A man’s wealth is not in the coins in his purse. It is in his income.”
• Ensure a future income. Every person gets old. Make sure your income will continue without work.
• Buy life insurance. Provide in advance for the protection of your family.
• Increase your ability to earn. Improve your skills. As you perfect your craft, your ability to earn more increases.
• The more we know, the more we may earn. The person who seeks to know more of their craft is capable of earning more.
• You cannot arrive at the fullest measure of success until you crush the spirit of procrastination within you.
• The 5 Laws of Gold: 1) Gold comes easily and in increasing quantity to the person who saves at least 1/10th of their earnings. 2) Gold labors diligently and multiplies for the person who finds it profitable employment. 3) Gold clings to the protection of the person who invests their gold with wise people. 4) Gold slips away from the person who invests gold into purposes through which they are not familiar. 5) Gold flees the person who tries to force it into impossible earnings.
• If you desire to help you friend do not do so in a way that brings their burdens onto you. There are many ways to help people. You don’t have to choose the ways that restrict your time, money, energy, or ability to care for yourself.
• The wise lender always has a guarantee of repayment should the investment go poorly.
• Above all you should desire safety for your money. Better a little caution than a great regret.
• Protect yourself with insurance. You cannot afford to be unprotected.
• Do not live beyond your means.
• No man respects himself if he does not repay his debts.
• The soul of a free man looks at the world as a series of problems to be solved. Meanwhile, the soul of a slave whines, “What can I do?”
• “Where the determination is, a way can be found.”
• If you are in debt, live on 70% of what you make. Save 10% for yourself. Use the remaining 20% to repay your debts.
• Stick with the plan. Money accrues surprisingly quickly and debts are gone fast with discipline and consistency.
• Work attracts friends who admire your industriousness. Work attracts money and opportunity. “Hard work is the best friend I’ve ever had.”

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The Richest Man in Babylon

George S. Clason | 4.48 | 105,902 ratings and reviews

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Reviews and Recommendations

We've comprehensively compiled reviews of The Richest Man in Babylon from the world's leading experts.

Daymond John Founder/FUBU [Daymond John said this is one of his most-recommended books.] (Source)

Grant Cardone This book emphasized the need to get reliable income streams and to never ever confuse your necessary expenses with the things you want. It’s a timeless classic that every school in America should have in their curriculum. (Source)

Aisha Yesufu @seundavidpaul 👏👏👏👏👏 This is a great book (Source)

Sean Si Recommends this book

Yaro Starak You get this one idea about your finances that you take forward like Richest Man in Babylon – you know, save 10% of your money every year and make sure it grows 10% every year, and that’s how you can become wealthy long-term, because of compounding – a simple idea. (Source)

Mark Moses [ listing five books he would recommend to young people interested in entrepreneurship] (Source)

Tiffany Aliche The Richest Man in Babylon by George Samuel Clason - it reads like a Shakespearean play, but it has all of the tenets for a successful financial life. (Source)

David Heinemeier Hansson This is a 1920s classic version of How To Get Rich. The ancestor of all the pale imitations, like Rich Dad/Poor Dad, that came since. And while I scoffed at plenty of the allegories from ancient Babylon that presents the lessons, it was still a neat package. And at least ancient Babylon is a more interesting backdrop for teaching lessons about money than some suburban house flipper. I ended up liking it more at the end than I did at the beginning. It’s also a really interesting tie-in with that debt history book. (Source)

DJ Vlad Recommends this book

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The Richest Man in Babylon (Summary & Notes

written by Randy Petrick, ChFC & SeedTime | Book Summaries

George S. Clason’s The Richest Man in Babylon has gained widespread recognition for its enduring financial guidance, which is cleverly conveyed through ancient Babylonian parables. Since its first release, this book has remained a fundamental resource in personal finance, celebrated for its ability to impart profound wisdom through concise and impactful narratives.

Book Details

• Title: The Richest Man in Babylon
• Author: George S. Clason
• Genre: Personal Finance, Self-Help
• Publication Date: 1926
• ISBN: 978-1505339116

About the Author:

George S. Clason was a prolific writer known for creating informational pamphlets on financial management. His most famous work, The Richest Man in Babylon, is a foundational book on personal wealth and financial independence, showcasing his deep understanding of finance and wealth accumulation strategies.

Summary of “The Richest Man in Babylon”:

“The Richest Man in Babylon” is a highly respected and widely acclaimed book in the field of personal finance due to its concise and impactful narratives. It has garnered immense recognition as an invaluable resource for individuals striving to enhance their financial management skills and achieve financial success.

The author, George S. Clason, was renowned for his informative pamphlets and writings that covered a wide range of financial management topics. The Richest Man in Babylon is his most famous work, providing fundamental principles of money through parables set in ancient Babylon.

In this influential and thought-provoking work, Clason presents a series of captivating parables set in the ancient city of Babylon, which serve as powerful and relatable illustrations of the fundamental principles of money.

Through these engaging stories, readers are enlightened about the significance of saving money, avoiding debt, and making prudent investments. By following the timeless wisdom and practical advice imparted in the book, readers can gain profound insights into the path towards financial independence and long-term financial security, ultimately paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.

What is the main point of The Richest Man in Babylon?

The main point of The Richest Man in Babylon is to provide fundamental principles of money through engaging and relatable parables set in the historical and prosperous city of ancient Babylon.

These parables serve as powerful illustrations of timeless wisdom, highlighting the importance of saving money, avoiding unnecessary debt, and making wise investment decisions to achieve long-lasting financial independence and wealth accumulation. By presenting these principles in a captivating narrative format, the book aims to inspire readers to apply these lessons in their own lives, empowering them to attain financial success and build a solid foundation for a prosperous future.

Is the richest man in Babylon a true story?

No, “The Richest Man in Babylon” is a fictional tale that imparts valuable financial wisdom through its engaging narrative. While it may not be based on real events, the lessons and principles it presents are timeless and applicable to anyone seeking financial success. By following the characters’ journeys and implementing the strategies they discover, readers can gain valuable insights into managing their finances, building wealth, and achieving their financial goals.

Selected Passages Highlighted in the Book:

• A part of all you earn is yours to keep. It should be not less than a tenth no matter how little you earn. It can be as much more as you can afford. Pay yourself first. (26)
• The three laws of successfully handling wealth : You first learned to live upon less than you could earn. Next you learned to seek advice from those who were competent through their own experience to give it. And, lastly, you have learned to make gold work for you. (29)
• Which desirest thou most? Is it the gratification of thy desires of each day, a jewel, a bit of finery, better raiment, more food; things quickly gone and forgotten? Or is it substantial belongings, gold, lands, herds, merchandise, income-bringing investments? The coins thou takest from thy purse bring the first. The coins thou leavest within it will bring the latter. (40)
• Consult with wise men. Secure the advice of those experienced in the profitable handling of gold. Let their wisdom protect thy treasure from unsafe investment. (47)
• For a man to desire five pieces of gold is a tangible desire which he can press to fulfillment. After he has backed his desire for five pieces of gold with strength of purpose to secure it, next he can find similar ways to obtain ten pieces and then twenty pieces and later a thousand pieces and behold, he has become wealthy. In learning to secure his one definite small desire, he hath trained himself to secure a larger one. This is the process by which wealth is accumulated: first in small sums, then in larger ones as a man learns and becomes more capable. (52)
• “If a man be lucky, there is no foretelling the possible extent of his good fortune. Pitch him into the Euphrates and like as not he will swim out with a pearl in his hand.”  –Babylonian Proverb
• …good luck waits to come to that man who accepts opportunity.
• Good luck fled from procrastination in both these tales. Yet, this is not unusual. The spirit of procrastination is with all men. We desire riches; yet, how often when opportunity doth appear before us, that spirit of procrastination from within doth urge various delays in our acceptance. In listening to it we do become our own worst enemies. (67)
• Gold, indeed, is a willing worker. It is ever eager to multiply when opportunity presents itself. To every man who hath a store of gold set by, opportunity comes for its most profitable use. As the years pass, it multiplies itself in surprising fashion. (82)
• Better a little caution than a great regret.

Who Would Benefit From This Book?

This book perfectly fits individuals seeking foundational financial wisdom, including financial growth enthusiasts, Christians looking for biblically-aligned financial principles , and anyone who prefers enduring advice over modern trends. It is especially suited for readers who appreciate parable-style teachings on financial acumen.

Popular quotes from “The Richest Man in Babylon”:

• “A part of all you earn is yours to keep.”
• “Better a little caution than a great regret.”
• “Wealth is a result of man’s capacity to think.”
• “Money is plentiful for those who understand the simple rules of its acquisition.”

Related Books:

• “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill
• “Your Money or Your Life” by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez
• “The Total Money Makeover” by Dave Ramsey

Readers who enjoyed “The Richest Man in Babylon” might also find value in Bob & Linda’s award-winning book: Simple Money, Rich Life . Find connections between Clason’s principles and modern financial strategies to enrich your own financial life!

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About Randy Petrick, ChFC & SeedTime

Randy Petrick is a Chartered Life Underwriter, a Chartered Financial Consultant, and a Retirement Income Certified Professional. He has almost 45 years experience personally investing while also studying and teaching in the fields of money, investing, and personal finance. To date he has read hundreds of books on various financial topics and generosity and loves sharing what he has learned with others. For more of Randy's recent articles check out his website WordsOfAbundance.com

In this biblically sound and grace-filled money book, you'll discover the NEW rules of money that will transform your financial life. Say goodbye to outdated advice and hello to a simple, automated system that helps you achieve better results with less time and effort.

If you're ready to achieve true financial freedom the right way and for the right reasons, this is the guide you've been waiting for.

The Richest Man in Babylon

The Richest Man in Babylon written by George Samuel Clason teaches the importance of building a large and successful business. The Richest Man in Babylon introduces the reader to the secrets of wealth, as used by the ancient civilizations of the world. It deals with finances, how to plan financially for your life, how to deal with your wealth, and how that affects your life.

“The Richest Man in Babylon” book is written by “ George Samuel Clason ,” a best-selling author and speaker. His book has been translated into many languages. This book teaches the importance of building a large and successful business .

George Samuel Clason was an American author. He is most often associated with his book The Richest Man in Babylon, first published in 1926 by George S. Clason.

He dispensed financial advice through a collection of parables set 8,000 years ago in ancient Babylon. Here are the most important takeaways and how to apply them to live your prosperous life.

The Richest Man in Babylon   introduces the reader to the secrets of wealth , as used by the ancient civilizations of the world. It deals with finances, how to plan financially for your life, how to deal with your wealth, and how that affects your life. 

Babylon is a city that has captured the attention of people throughout history. Despite lacking the natural resources that typically contribute to such prosperity, it was known for its vast wealth and influence.

Despite this, the city managed to become an empire of prosperity through the wisdom of its rulers. Babylon’s riches were entirely self-made, and its success did not result from chance.

Even today, the principles that governed money in Babylon’s heyday still apply, and these principles have remained constant over the past six thousand years.

Money is plentiful for those who understand the simple rules of its acquisition.

• Start the purse to fatten.
• Control the expenditure
• Make the gold multiple. 
• Guard the treasures against loss.
• Make the dwelling a profitable investment.
• Insure a future income. 
• Increase the ability to earn.

The book centers on personal achievement and how we can attain it. Success is a product of our capabilities and endeavors and can be achieved through adequate preparation.

Our actions are only as innovative as our thoughts, which are only as perceptive as our comprehension. Moreover, this book aims to provide valuable insights to those who aspire to financial prosperity, helping them acquire, retain, and grow their wealth.

Chapter 1. Historical sketch of Babylon

Babylon, a city steeped in history and myth, is renowned for its opulence and grandeur. Its name evokes images of untold riches and prosperity, with treasures of gold and jewels beyond measure.

Despite its seemingly barren surroundings, with no forests, mines, or natural trade routes, Babylon rose to become one of the wealthiest empires of its time.

Its success is a testament to man’s ingenuity and resourcefulness, as human hands developed all of the resources supporting the city.

While Babylon may no longer exist as a city, its legacy lives on. The ruins of the ancient city are located in Asia, in a valley beside the Euphrates river, which was once a populous and irrigated farming district. However, today the area is a barren, windswept wasteland.

Babylon’s history can be traced back 8,000 years to the Sumerians, the first to inhabit the region. They were highly educated and enlightened, credited with many firsts, including engineering, astronomy, mathematics, finance, and even written language.

Babylon was organized like a modern city, with streets, shops, and peddlers selling their wares throughout residential districts. Priests presided over magnificent temples, while the city’s inner enclosure housed the royal palaces. The Babylonians were skilled in the arts, including sculpture, painting, weaving, gold working, and producing metal weapons and agricultural tools. Their jewellery was especially renowned; many examples can still be seen in the world’s leading museums.

In addition to their artistic talents, the Babylonians were also shrewd financiers and traders. They are credited with inventing money for exchange, promissory notes, and written titles to property. Their financial and business acumen were critical to their success as a civilization.

Chapter 2. The man who desires gold

In the opening chapter of “The Richest Man in Babylon,” we are introduced to two friends, Bansir and Kobbi, who struggle to make ends meet despite their lifelong dedication to their respective trades. Bansir, a chariot maker, is found daydreaming by Kobbi, a lyre player, who jokingly asks for a loan since Bansir seems to have enough money to waste time daydreaming. Bansir shares with Kobbi a dream he had where he had all the money he could ever want, but upon waking up, he found himself in a dire financial situation with no savings or investments.

As the two men lament their situation, they wonder how some people escape their circumstances and attain great wealth. They had always believed that hard work alone was enough to transform their lives into leisurely ones, but now realize this is not always true.

During their conversation, they observe a group of enslaved people being driven to work, and they reflect on how easily they could have traded places with them. This observation leads them to discuss their old friend Arkad, the wealthiest man in Babylon. They wonder how Arkad achieved such great fortune while they have nothing to show for their hard work.

Finally, Bansir and Kobbi conclude that the only way to attain wealth and financial security is to learn from those who have already achieved it. They plan to seek advice from their friend Arkad, the wealthy merchant and embark on a journey to learn the secrets of financial success.

In summary, the opening chapter of “The Richest Man in Babylon” sets the stage for the rest of the book by introducing the struggles of Bansir and Kobbi and their quest for financial security. The chapter highlights the importance of seeking guidance from those who have already achieved financial success. It lays the foundation for the valuable lessons readers will learn in the following chapters.

 Lesson: 

● To guide yourself on the path to wealth, it is essential to learn from those who have experience in achieving wealth.

● Main Idea While almost everyone concedes that money isn’t everything and that there are some things money cannot buy, it is also a fact that money is the medium by which worldly success is measured. From this perspective, wealth is a scorecard by which people measure themselves.

● Money represents success only through its ability to provide freedom to do things. It is not an end in and of itself – only a means to an end. The possession of sufficient amounts of capital makes possible the enjoyment of the very best services and goods the world has to offer.

● Many people have convinced themselves money has a way of avoiding them like the plague. This belief is usually based on their experience in consistently cashing short and scrambling to pay bills. In actuality, however, money is plentiful for anyone who understands the laws which govern its acquisition.

● To secure significant amounts of money, it is probably better to spend less time lamenting the bad luck of the past and more time focusing on the laws of capital acquisition.

● A far better approach is to believe that money can be attracted and governed by set laws and principles and to focus on learning and applying those laws to reap the rewards.

Chapter 3. The wealthiest man in Babylon

Arkad, a man who was once struggling financially like his friends Bansir and Kobbi, approached a money lender named Algamash for advice on becoming wealthy.

Algamash shared the first lesson, which was to pay oneself first. This means that a portion of all earnings should be kept for oneself before paying for any expenses or debts. Arkad learned that by paying himself a tenth of his earnings, he could live just as well on the remaining 90%.

As Arkad began accumulating savings, he sought advice from a bricklayer on investing in gemstones. However, he lost all his savings as a result. Algamash pointed out that Arkad should only seek advice from those with experience. This was the second lesson Arkad learned.

After some time, Algamash checked on Arkad and found that he had invested his savings on the advice of experienced businessmen and earned significant dividends.

When Arkad shared that he had used the earnings to purchase clothing for his wife and plan a feast, Algamash reminded him of the importance of compounding returns.

He advised Arkad to reinvest his earnings to produce even more returns, leading to incredible wealth and prosperity. This was the third lesson Arkad learned.

In summary, Arkad learned three lessons on his journey to becoming the wealthiest man in Babylon:

• Pay oneself first
• Seek advice only from those experienced,
• Take advantage of the compounding of returns.

These lessons taught him the value of saving, investing wisely, and letting his money work for him to create more incredible wealth over time.

Time and study are essential to accumulate wealth and use it wisely. Many people have ample time, but only a few use it constructively to build wealth.

Instead, they engage in various activities that waste time. Learning is also crucial, and one can acquire knowledge in two ways: by studying specific subjects and discovering what is not commonly known about any topic.

There are several fundamental principles that one should follow to acquire wealth. First, live below one’s means and save at least a tenth of one’s income. Most people spend all they earn and live paycheck to paycheck.

However, by paying oneself first and living on what is left, one can gradually increase their savings. With a regular savings program, one can feel a sense of pride, self-control, and progress.

Over a lifetime, a considerable amount of money passes through one’s hands, and by saving just a small portion of it, one can accumulate a substantial pool of capital.

The book, “The Richest Man in Babylon,” reveals seven secrets or strategies for accumulating wealth:

• Start saving and accumulating wealth by spending only nine out of every ten coins you earn. This habit will allow your bag to fill quickly, and you will learn to live within your means while accumulating wealth.
• Control your expenses by distinguishing between your needs and wants. Plan your expenses based on 90% of your income to avoid overspending.
• Invest your money wisely to make it multiply. Your gold should work for you and generate income through wise investments like loans or other profitable opportunities.
• Protect your wealth by avoiding risky investments and seeking the advice of knowledgeable individuals. Ensure you invest in safe ventures that will not cause you to lose capital.

5. Consider investing in property to generate a passive income. Owning your own home and renting out other properties can help you accumulate wealth and inspire you to continue building your financial portfolio.

6. Ensure a stable future income for yourself and your family by investing in assets such as land and property.

7. Enhance your ability to earn more money by continually learning and expanding your knowledge. Seek to become wiser in all areas of life to increase your earning potential.

Chapter 4. Meet the Goddesses of good luck.

In this chapter, Arkad talks about the concept of luck and how everyone desires to have good fortune in their lives.

He begins by discussing the idea of gambling, acknowledging that while it is possible to win a large sum of money through this means, he questions whether this money truly brings good luck in the long run.

He points out that he has never met a wealthy person who gained their wealth solely through gambling, implying that there are better ways to attract good fortune.

Arkad believes that good luck is more likely to come to those who actively seek out and seize opportunities.

He suggests that those who hesitate and procrastinate are less likely to attract good luck, as the goddess of luck favors those willing to take risks and pursue opportunities.

He stresses the importance of investing at least 1/10 of one’s earnings and seizing any opportunities that come one’s way.

Overall, the main idea is that good luck is not just a matter of chance or divine favor but is influenced by one’s actions and willingness to pursue opportunities.

The supporting ideas emphasize that the desire for good luck is universal and that procrastination and hesitation can prevent one from attracting good fortune.

In contrast, those actively seeking opportunities and taking action are more likely to attract good luck and succeed in their endeavors.

Chapter 5. The gold lender from Babylon

After receiving fifty gold pieces in exchange for his spears, Rodan is uncertain how to use the money. He spends several days contemplating his options but remains indecisive. Then, his sister approaches him and requests a loan to help her husband become a merchant. Although Rodan considers this option, he hesitates to commit his funds without proper guidance. Therefore, he seeks the counsel of Mathon, the gold lender, to decide how best to invest his money.

Chapter 6. The walls of Babylon

Bazar was a warrior entrusted with guarding the passageway to Babylon. During the city’s siege, he was the first to report any news to the villagers and counseled them during the attack.

Bazar provided personalized consolation to each person who sought information from him. He remained vigilant day and night, observing the enemy’s attempts to breach the city’s defenses.

The city’s strong defenses prevailed after three weeks and five days, and the attackers were defeated.

Bazar used this victory to prove to the citizens who had sought his counsel that his advice had been correct. He emphasized that the city’s strength had enabled it to withstand the enemy’s armies.

Bazar’s message to the citizens was that they could not afford to be without adequate protection, highlighting the importance of solid defenses for their safety and security.

There are two valuable lessons to learn from this scenario. First, protection should be carefully planned and tailored to specific circumstances.

This can involve insurance, diversifying investments, and selecting appropriate risk levels in our financial lives.

The second lesson comes from the example of Old Bazar. As someone who had fought many battles and understood the strength of the city’s defenses, he reassured the citizens during a crisis.

Similarly, in our own lives, it can be beneficial to have a trusted mentor or advisor who can provide guidance and reassurance during difficult times. Keeping informed and seeking the support of experienced individuals can help alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of security.

Chapter 7. The camel trader from Babylon

This chapter in “The Richest Man in Babylon” introduces us to Tarkad, a young man struggling to make ends meet. He owes money to multiple people and cannot afford a simple meal.

Although he considers stealing food, he knows this is not the right way to solve his problems. He waits outside an inn, hoping to find someone to lend him a helping hand. Instead, he encounters Debaser, a wealthy camel trader to whom Tarkad owes a small sum.

Debaser demands repayment, but Tarkad explains that he has faced significant misfortune and cannot afford to repay him.

Debaser challenges Tarkad’s excuse but invites him to join him for a meal at the inn. During the meal, Debaser shares a story about his struggles with debt.

As a young man, Debaser had been enslaved due to his reckless spending and inability to repay his debts.

His wife eventually left him, and he turned to a life of robbery, resulting in his capture and enslavement again. However, his fortune changed when he was sold to a woman who recognized his potential and asked him a life-changing question: did he have the soul of a slave or a free man?

This question transformed Debaser, who became determined to face his debts, become respected and honored, and live a free life.

With the help of his benefactor, he escaped slavery and began a challenging journey back to his homeland.

Despite numerous obstacles and moments of doubt, he persevered and eventually paid off all of his debts, becoming a respected and honored man in his community.

The lesson from Debaser’s story is that self-pity and allowing circumstances to dictate one’s life are the traits of an enslaved person.

In contrast, taking control of one’s life and taking action when necessary are the hallmarks of a free person.

The key to success is embracing a free person’s soul, which requires courage, determination, and accountability. Only then can one achieve honour and respect in their community.

Chapter 8. The clay tablets from Babylon

The chapter in “The Richest Man in Babylon” revolves around discovering five Mesopotamia tablets containing the secret to wealth.

The tablets reveal the story of Dabasir, who returns to Babylon with a plan to repay his debts and start anew. The tablets’ lessons were so valuable that even after thousands of years, they continued to inspire and help people.

Alfred Shrewsbury, an archaeologist, writes to Professor Franklin Caldwell about his and his wife’s experience following the tablets’ lessons.

He mentions saving and building a surplus is more gratifying than spending recklessly. The professor learns about the clay tablet collection that the archaeologist delivered to St. Swithin’s College of Nottingham University.

These tablets are supposed to record Dabasir’s financial affairs and details how he worked his way out of debt.

Both Dabasir and the professor discover that living on 70% of their earnings is not as challenging as they had thought.

By following Dabasir’s formula, they start to pay off their debts and accumulate savings. Over time, they retire from all their obligations and learn to live within their means. These keys to financial success are invaluable lessons that continue to help people even after thousands of years.

The professor writes to the archaeologist about how the details on the clay tablets have opened his eyes to a new way of dealing with his financial affairs.

In a subsequent letter, he elaborates on how Dabasir’s formula has transformed his life. The letters showcase the timeless wisdom of the tablets, proving that financial success is achievable by anyone willing to learn and follow a disciplined approach to money management.

The critical lesson to fixing a debt situation is to organize your information and take action. Old Dabasir, as described in the clay tablets, followed a simple formula to overcome his debts.

He started by saving one-tenth of all his earnings and making a list of all his creditors and the amounts owed.

He then visited each creditor to explain his inability to pay off the debts and offered to service them with two-tenths of his earnings in proportion to the amount owed.

Although some creditors were unhappy with the payment plan, they eventually accepted it. Dabasir and his wife then used the remaining seven-tenths of their earnings for daily needs.

The success of this plan lies in its simplicity and the specific proportions used. To ensure success, it is crucial to write down all debts and communicate the payment plan to creditors.

This step helps in tracking progress and avoiding any misunderstandings regarding the size of the debt. Finally, discipline and sticking to the plan are crucial for overcoming debts.

Chapter 9. The luckiest man in Babylon

The story introduces Sharru Nada and Hadan Galu, who are traveling together. Shares with Hadan that he had once been enslaved but was fortunate enough to be sold to a baker, where he learned the trade and became happy. Sherry also tells Hadan that his grandfather had been enslaved but was close to buying his freedom.

In a fortunate turn of events, Arad, Hadan’s grandfather, was able to buy Sharru’s freedom after they met again.

This story inspires Hadan to believe that hard work is the key to his future success. The two men in the story faced financial difficulties but learned from each other and listened to successful people to apply the lessons.

This book focuses on personal success and how it results from our efforts and abilities, which require proper preparation. Often, we dream of becoming rich but fail to take the necessary actions to achieve it. To make our dreams come true, we should follow these essential tips:

• Saving at least 10% of our earnings and investing is crucial to becoming wealthy.
• Seeking advice from experts in the field can help us make better decisions.
• We should avoid spending our savings prematurely, as it is similar to cutting a tree before it bears fruit.

Just like a tree, wealth begins with a tiny seed in the form of savings. By nurturing this seed and allowing it to grow, we can eventually reap the fruits of our labour and enjoy a prosperous life.

The Richest Man in Babylon Book Review

My journey with “The Richest Man in Babylon” has been enlightening. It’s a treasure trove of financial wisdom imparted through engaging parables set in ancient Babylon. The tales are simple yet profound, turning the otherwise daunting subject of wealth accumulation into an enjoyable read.

Clason emphasizes the importance of saving, investing wisely, and curbing unnecessary expenditures. What resonated with me most were his lessons on seeking counsel from knowledgeable people before making significant investments and the value of continuous self-improvement and skill acquisition.

This book’s teachings are timeless, relevant, and surprisingly practical despite being based on ancient principles. It might not provide a step-by-step guide to financial freedom, but it lays the groundwork for developing a sound money mindset.

I believe “The Richest Man in Babylon” is a must-read for anyone wishing to understand the essence of personal finance and wealth creation. It’s more than just a book; it’s a mentor in print.

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174 thoughts on “the richest man in babylon”.

Best Summary

1 ) Increase the ability to earn make growth in your 2 Grab opportunities 3, Knowledge and then you see your growth of income 4 Future income.

I read book and book is very important

In the book, we have been told how to get financial freedom, how to stay financially fit, they have been told very well. This story is the story of a very famous village called Babylon. According to what is mentioned in it, the average of the money we earn is ten percent, we should save and save. And you should invest in a good place. We should keep informed about the great people of that field in which we want to be successful, we should take the advice of them. We should keep Never Give Up this attitude in our life till we are successful, we should not give up trying and our first savings should be handled till we become successful.

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The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason – Book Review

The Richest Man in Babylon is almost a century old. Yet, every doctrine it professes stays relevant even in the information age. Every lesson is helpful, and every doctrine indispensable. Babylon may have withered away, but its principles live on. George Samuel Clason’s masterpiece is a work of art, science, and commerce, which every individual must experience, master, and practice before earning their first buck. 

The Richest Man in Babylon

In the beginning, Clason introduces Bansir, a skilled chariot builder, and Kobbi, a talented musician. Both of them are skilled in their professions but find themselves struggling financially. They seek advice from Arkad, the richest man in Babylon, who reveals the Babylonian secret to wealth: “saving a portion of earnings.” Arkad emphasizes that a part of all a man earns is his to keep and explains the principle of paying oneself first. The secret might sound ridiculously simple at first, but the author substantiates it throughout the book. 

The Richest Man in Babylon is a financial guide in the form of parables set in ancient Babylon. The book presents timeless principles of money management and wealth-building, using engaging narratives to impart valuable lessons on financial success. The book is divided into 11 chapters, each written so beautifully that The Richest Man in Babylon could easily pass as a literary classic. Here’s a crux of the entire book.

Further in the book, we see Arkad narrating his life story and how he went from being a poor scribe to the wealthiest man in Babylon. He reveals his journey to accumulating wealth by following simple yet powerful financial principles. The first principle that Arkad shares is that a man must save at least a tenth of his earnings, regardless of how little or great he earns. Other principles Arkad shares include not spending more than the remaining nine-tenths, avoiding unnecessary expenses, and investing with caution.

Key Lessons from The Richest Man in Babylon

Arkad uses a metaphor to describe poverty – a lean purse . Obeying the King’s command, Arkad starts teaching the seven cures for a lean purse in the legendary Temple of Learning. Simply put, the richest man in Babylon starts teaching the poor how to become wealthy. In total, Arkad teaches his pupils Seven Cures for a Lean Purse and the Five Laws of Gold .  

At the onset, the lessons seem too simple. But as the lectures progress, we discover timeless wisdom in Arkad’s words, who makes a compelling argument for traditional financial management. Here are four key lessons from these lectures to help individuals attain financial success. 

Accumulate Wealth by Saving and Minimizing Expenses

According to The Richest Man in Babylon , financial success begins with accumulating enough wealth for investment. To attain wealth, Arkad advocates his two basic principles – save from your income and minimize your expenses. Combining these two principles will give you enough wealth to start your own enterprise or invest in appropriate businesses. 

Precisely speaking, a person must save at least 10 percent of his income, however slight it may be. Secondly, a person must analyze his expenses and drastically cut down unnecessary spending. If a person adheres to these two principles for an extended period, he will have enough money to explore various income sources. Read our review of The Power of Habit to learn how you can develop the habit of saving and avoiding impulsive spending.

Invest Your Savings Wisely – Right Persons, Great Advice, Minimum Risk

After you’ve accumulated enough wealth by following the principles of saving and mindful spending, the next step is to invest. Arkad says, “Make your gold and its children work for you.” He says that accumulated gold or wealth, if sitting idly, cannot help the owner achieve greater things in life or fulfill one’s reasonable desires entirely. However, while investing, one must be sufficiently cautious. Hunting for unreasonable returns can lead to unbearable losses, as they entail huge risks and unchartered territories. 

One of the most important anecdotes related to investing in the book is about Arkad himself. When Arkad was a scribe, he started saving on the advice of an old merchant. But when he saved enough gold for investment, he made a big blunder, so all his savings vanished. He trusted a bricklayer to trade in precious jewels and lost whatever gold he had. Thus, the story teaches us that we must never bet on a person who has not enough experience or knowledge of the enterprise he undertakes. 

Similarly, The Richest Man in Babylon heavily emphasizes seeking advice from learned, wise, and successful men. The book advocates saving time by asking men of experience about life and enterprise, which helps prevent mistakes and losses. Thus, by being cautious, seeking advice, and investing in the right person and business, one will amass substantial wealth.

Secure Your Future – Income and Dwelling

Among all of Arkad’s discourses at the Temple of Learning, arguably, the most important one is about securing the future. A person must secure the future of himself and his family, i.e., plan for his family’s well-being and post-retirement life. And how does one do that? By ensuring a future income and owning a dwelling. 

To ensure a stable retirement life, one has to set aside a small portion of his income and allocate it to future earnings. Arkad mentions two methods explicitly. First, purchase land or property which steadily grows in value and could be of significance when you retire. Second, lend your income to a profitable business that would pay you back after a pre-decided duration with added profits or rental. 

The other part of securing one’s future is to own your dwelling. Having a piece of land or a house helps bring peace and a sense of security to yourself and your family. Paying rent, according to the book, only fattens the landlord’s purse and leaves you at his mercy. While paying rent doesn’t seem too much you’re still earning, it could be too much when you retire. Thus, you’d be forced to leave the dwelling you and your family had cherished for years.  

Improve Earning Ability – True Desire, Skills, and Knowledge

The greatest asset of the human mind is the ability to progress in whichever respect one wishes. To achieve financial success, one needs to progress in terms of earning ability. Improving the ability to earn is the biggest contributing factor to earning more and generating substantial wealth. But how does one improve one’s earn-ability? 

According to The Richest Man in Babylon , a person can improve his ability to earn by three elements – having the true desire to succeed, attaining knowledge, and learning new skills. The true desire to succeed accompanies commitment and perseverance, without which success remains but a dream. Arkad says what we consider desires generally are nothing more than longings that never manifest into reality. Also, our desires mustn’t be so unrealistic that they bring nothing but disappointment. 

Those with true desires to work consistently to acquire greater skills and knowledge. You may be an employee or an entrepreneur; improving your earning ability will serve you equally. If you’re an employee, your employer will benefit from your skills, subsequently raising your value in the organization. Likewise, if you’re an entrepreneur, learning skills and attaining knowledge will help you lower costs, find new opportunities, and increase revenue. 

What I Liked About The Richest Man in Babylon

The ornate language.

The Richest Man in Babylon is a finance student’s best lesson. But for a literary enthusiast like myself, I absolutely loved the writing. The use of medieval, Shakespearean language makes the book sound poetic, adding to its already massive appeal to a wider audience. While some might find it a bit confusing initially, I’m sure most readers will enjoy it thoroughly. Beginners looking for financial education, even those from vernacular backgrounds, will find the book friendly and interesting until the end. 

The Captivating Narration

While the language is ornate, the book’s narration is even better. Clason uses stories and anecdotes to deliver complex financial lessons, making it easier for beginners to understand. Plus, the whole Babylonian backdrop of the book adds charm and flair, sucking the reader in from the first word. As I progressed through the book, I witnessed a great and financially sound civilization which forced me to read more about the Babylonians later. 

The Believable Characters

This is my favourite aspect of The Richest Man in Babylon from a literary purview. Every character Clason uses to convey his message is believable and comes across as familiar. I could relate to the disciples of Arkad and felt as if he was a real teacher to me. The money lender, the old merchant, the bricklayers, Arkad’s son, and Sharru Nada, the merchant prince – every single one of them is as believable as day and night. 

The Utter Simplicity

While I loved the literary aspects more, the biggest strength of the book is its simplicity. Every message it relays and every lesson it teaches is simple on its face, but as we progress, the meaning becomes deeper and wiser. The utter simplicity is what makes the book stand the test of time and remain relevant even after nearly a century. In fact, The Richest Man in Babylon will retain its relevance even a hundred years from now. 

Final Thoughts

The Richest Man in Babylon is a remarkable book that can help 99 percent of individuals who live their life working nine-to-five jobs. Even the one percent who chose to become employers instead will also find it helpful in many ways. The book is a timeless classic, with messages so strong that it could change lives across the globe. Yet, the book is so simple that even a slum-dweller who knows to read can use the book as his financial guide. That’s the true beauty, the true mission of Arkad, the richest man in Babylon.

Noman Shaikh is the co-founder and editor-in-chief of Bombay Reads. He grew up in Mumbai, a city he loves more than any other, and currently works as a content consultant. His expertise lies in creating high-quality academic and marketing content in the form of blogs, articles, op-eds, etc. Noman has worked with reputed brands, including Economic Times (through Spiral Media), Coinbase (through MattsenKumar), AdEngage, Della Group, GBIM Technologies,  VAP Group, etc. For his published portfolio, click here . Contact Noman on noman@bombayreads for engagement.

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The Richest Man in Babylon Book Summary, Review, Notes

The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason is an ancient book that offers a universal recipe for today’s most-asked question – how to become wealthy?

Book Title : The Richest Man in Babylon Author : George Samuel Clason Date of Reading: Dec 2022 Rating : 9/10

Table of Contents

What is being said in detail:.

This book talks about culture and living in the 20th century in Babylon, the cradle of the fundamental financing principle conceived 8000 years ago. 

The fact that makes this book even more interesting to read is that you have stories about money and its value from different perspectives: ordinary people, slaves, as well as divas.

Besides, a few chapters provide clear instructions and rules about money, sales, expenses and savings, the balance between these two, and so on… Since these rules are universal and extremely simple, it is not just possible, but it ought to implement the same thing today in our lives.

The book is composed of eleven chapters, and each of them brings a different, interesting story and characters.

Foreword explains the difference between today’s world and the past, delivering the reason why Babylon was the wealthiest city in the world for so many years. 

Chapter One: “The Man Who Desired Gold”

Chapter 1 talks about the chariot builder of Babylon who was wondering why he cannot have the same goods as his old friend, the richest man in Babylon when they had the same predispositions in youth. 

He realized he had been working hard all this time and had some talent for chariot building, but his budget was only enough for basic life needs. So, he decided to visit his friend and ask him the same question he was asking himself.

Chapter Two: “The Richest Man in Babylon”

Chapter 2 is about a wealthy man named Arkad and his path to that wealth. Here you can find plenty of advice about saving and spending money and reframing your thinking of money. 

The main thing Arkad was saying to his friend is thoughts about the money you earn. You need to know that you are making money for yourself, not for bills, food, or clothes. 

So, you have the right to keep one part of it and wisely decide what to do with that money; how to make that small part grow and work for you? 

Chapter Three: “Seven Cures for a Lean Purse”

Chapter 3 clearly defines seven rules for saving and increasing your money. Also, this chapter shows different stories about Babylon residents, their way of investing money, and family care. 

Even more important can be the part about mistakes and losing money, so better learn from someone else’s than your own! 

Here are the rules: Start thy purse to fattening, Control thy expenditures, Make thy gold multiply, Guard thy treasures from loss, Make of thy dwelling a profitable investment, Insure a future income, Increase thy ability to earn. 

Chapter Four: “Meet the Goddess of Good Luck”

Chapter five: “the five laws of gold”.

Chapter 5 is a story about the son and a wealthy father who is determined to test his son’s skills and improve his wisdom. He gave him rules for the treatment of money and time to prove he was worthy of inheritance. 

You can find all five laws deeply explained with examples in this chapter. These are the five laws:

1. Gold cometh gladly and in increasing quantity to any man who will put by not less than one-tenth or his earnings to create an estate for his future and that or his family.

2. Gold laboureth diligently and contentedly for the wise owner who finds for it profitable employment, multiplying even as the flocks of the field.

3. Gold clingeth to the protection of the cautious owner who invests it under the advice of men wise in its handling.

4. Gold slippeth away from the man who invests it in businesses or purposes with which he is not familiar or which are not approved by those skilled in its keep.

5. Gold flees the man who would force it to impossible earnings or who followeth the alluring advice of tricksters and schemers or who trusts it to his own inexperience and romantic desires in investment.

Chapter Six: “The Gold Lender of Babylon”

Chapter 6 provides the situation where you need to choose between logic and emotion when it comes to money lending. The most experienced lender of Babylon tells you his advice: to whom should you lend your money? 

How to be sure that people will return what they borrowed? Get to know that person, and ask her what she would do with borrowed money and how she can be sure she can return that amount to you. Do they have any property? Do they have the capacity to earn?

Chapter Seven: “The Walls of Babylon”

Chapter 7 describes one attempt at looting Babylon and once again proving its security. The walls of Babylon protected her citizens, walls whose construction required an enormous amount of money.

Chapter Eight: “The Camel Trader of Babylon”

Chapter 8 is a little bit different story about loans and methods of retrieving them. This part of the book highlights the difference between a slave and a free man, and what would each of them will do in a situation without any money source. 

Chapter Nine: “The Clay Tablets from Babylon”

Chapter 9 continues talking about loans, describing in detail the situation from the previous chapter. That story was written on clay tablets and helped lost students to find their way out of financial problems. 

Chapter Ten: “The Luckiest Man in Babylon”

Chapter 10 also talks about slaves and freedom, but this time from the slave’s point of view. It highlights the importance of work and patience. You cannot find a way to freedom without putting effort and knowing that luck is the state of mind at the first point. 

Chapter Eleven: “A Historical Sketch of Babylon”

Chapter 11 , at the very end, gives you a detailed description of the origin of Babylon through history and how one city at that time could have or find all innovation for a living, business, and enjoyment.

Most Important Keywords, Sentences, Quotes:

“Babylon became the wealthiest city of the ancient world because its citizens were the richest people of their time. They appreciated the value of money. 

They practiced sound financial principles in acquiring money, keeping money and making their money earn more money. They provided for themselves what we all desire . . . incomes for the future.”

CHAPTER ONE: “The Man Who Desired Gold”

“Babylon was like this—a mixture of grandeur and squalor, of dazzling wealth and direst poverty, crowded together without plan or system within the protecting walls of the city.”

“Why, indeed! Because when I awoke and remembered how empty was my purse, a feeling of rebellion swept over me. Let us talk it over together, for, as the sailors do say, we ride in the same boat, we two. 

As youngsters, we went together to the priests to learn wisdom. As young men, we shared each other’s pleasures. As grown men, we have always been close friends. We have been contented subjects of our kind. We have been satisfied to work long hours and spend our earnings freely. 

We have earned much coin in the years that have passed, yet to know the joys that come from wealth, we must dream about them. Bah! Are we more than dumb sheep? We live in the richest city in all the world. The travellers do say none equals it in wealth. 

About us is much display of wealth, but of it we ourselves have naught. After half a lifetime of hard labour, thou, my best of friends, hast an empty purse and sayest to me, ‘May I borrow such a trifle as two shekels until after the noblemen’s feast this night?’ 

Then, what do I reply? Do I say, ‘Here is my purse; its contents will I gladly share?’ No, I thine. What is admit that my purse is as empty as the matter? Why cannot we acquire  silver and gold—more than enough for food and robes?”

CHAPTER TWO: “The Richest Man in Babylon”

“In old Babylon there once lived a certain very rich man named Arkad. Far and wide he was famed for his great wealth. Also was he famed for his liberality. He was generous in his charities. 

He was generous with his family. He was liberal in his own expenses. But nevertheless each year his wealth increased more rapidly than he spent it.”

“Wealth is a power. With wealth many things are possible:

-One may ornament the home with the richest of furnishings.

-One may sail the distant seas.

-One may feast on the delicacies of far lands.

-One may buy the ornaments of the gold worker and the stone polisher.

-One may even build mighty temples for the Gods.

-One may do all these things and many others in which there is delight for the senses and gratification for the soul.”

“As for study, did not our wise teacher teach us that learning was of two kinds: the one kind being the things we learned and knew, and the other being the training that taught us how to find out what we did not know?”

“Then he looked at me shrewdly from under his shaggy brows and said in a low, forceful tone, ‘I found the road to wealth when I decided that a part of all I earned was mine to keep. And so will you.’”

“’Wealth, like a tree, grows from a tiny seed. The first copper you save is the seed from which your tree of wealth shall grow. The sooner you plant that seed the sooner shall the tree grow. 

And the more faithfully you nourish and water that tree with consistent savings, the sooner may you bask in contentment beneath its shade.’”

“When I set a task for myself, I complete it. Therefore, I am careful not to start difficult and impractical tasks, because I love leisure.” When I set a task for myself, I complete it. Therefore, I am careful not to start difficult and impractical tasks, because I love leisure.”

“Wealth grows wherever men exert energy.”

“I advise that you take the wisdom of Algamish and say to yourselves, ‘A part of all I earn is mine to keep.’ Say it in the morning when you first arise. Say it at noon. Say it at night. Say it each hour of every day. Say it to yourself until the words stand out like letters of fire across the sky.”

“Enjoy life while you are here. Do not overstrain or try to save too much. If one-tenth of all you earn is as much as you can comfortably keep, be content to keep this portion. 

Live otherwise according to your income and let not yourself get niggardly and afraid to spend. Life is good and life things worthwhile and things to enjoy.”

CHAPTER THREE: “Seven Cures for a Lean Purse”

“The king was thoughtful for some time. Then he asked, “Why should so few men be able to acquire all the gold?” “Because they know how,” replied the Chancellor.”

“Now I will tell sons of men. It thee an unusual truth about men and is this: That what each of us calls our ‘necessary expenses’ will always grow to equal our incomes unless we protest to the contrary.”

“[..] and last remedy for a lean purse is to cultivate thy own powers, to study and become wiser, to become more skillful, to so act as to respect thyself.”

CHAPTER FOUR: “Meet the Goddess of Good Luck”

“If a man be lucky, there is no foretelling the possible extent of his good fortune. Pitch him into the Euphrates and like as not he will swim out with a pearl in his hand. (Babylonian proverb)”

“[…] In this tale we see how good luck waits to come to that man who accepts opportunity.”

“From our discussion have I learned that to attract good luck to oneself, it is necessary to take advantage of opportunities. Therefore, in the future, I shall endeavour to make the best of such opportunities as do come to me.”

CHAPTER FIVE: “The Five Laws of Gold”

“Gold is reserved for those who know its laws and abide by them.”

“[…] ‘This I do to prove to thee, my father, of how much greater value I consider thy wisdom than thy gold. Yet, who can measure in bags of gold, the value of wisdom? 

Without wisdom, gold is quickly lost by those who have it, but with wisdom, gold can be secured by those who have it not, as these three bags of gold do prove.”

CHAPTER SIX: “The Gold Lender of Babylon”

“Can this be so? Rodan, the spearmaker, doth display more cunning than all the rest, for he comes Mathon, not for gold, but for come to me for gold to pay for to advice. 

Many men their follies, but as for advice, they want it not. Yet who is more able to advise than the lender of gold to whom many men come in trouble?”

“My friend,” resumed Mathon, ” ’tis a worthy subject thou bringest to discuss. Gold bringeth unto its possessor responsibility and a changed position with his fellow men. 

It bringeth fear  lest he lose it or it be tricked away from him. It bringeth a feeling of power and ability to do good. Likewise, it bringeth opportunities whereby his very good intentions may bring him into difficulties.”

“The chest tells you, Rodan, that humans in the throes of great emotions are not safe risks for the gold lender.”

“Ere thou goest read beneath this which I have carved the lid of my token box. It applies equally to the borrower and the lender: BETTER A LITTLE CAUTION THAN A GREAT REGRET ”

CHAPTER SEVEN: “The Walls of Babylon”

“The walls of Babylon had once again mighty and repulsed a vicious foe determined to loot her rich treasures and to ravish and enslave her citizens.”

CHAPTER EIGHT: “The Camel Trader of Babylon”

“Where the determination is, the way can be found, Dabasir replied. “I now had the determination so I set out to find a way.”

CHAPTER NINE: “The Clay Tablets from Babylon”

“My dear Professor: If, in your further digging into those ruins of Babylon, you encounter the ghost of a former resident, an old camel trader named Dabasir, do me a favour. 

Tell him that his scribbling upon those clay tablets, so long ago, has earned for him the lifelong gratitude of a couple of college folks back here in England.”

“He had a real message for fellow sufferers, a message so important that after five thousand  years it has risen out of the ruins of Babylon, just as true and just as vital as the day it was buried.”

CHAPTER TEN: “The Luckiest Man in Babylon”

“Megiddo felt that we would soon part When no buyers were near, he talked to me earnestly to impress upon me how valuable work would be to me in the future: ‘Some men hate it.  They make it their enemy. 

Better to treat it like a friend, make thyself like it. Don’t mind because it is hard. If thou thinkest about what a good house thou build, then who cares  if the beams are heavy and it is far from the well carry the water thou get for the plaster. 

Promise me, boy, if thou get a master, work for him as hard as canst. If he does not appreciate all to do, never mind. Remember, work, well-done, does good to the man who does it. It makes him a better man.’”

“That night I was so excited over my success I could hardly sleep and tried to figure how much I could earn in a year and how many years would be required to buy my freedom .”

CHAPTER ELEVEN: “A Historical Sketch of Babylon”

“Many scientists consider the civilization of Babylon and other cities in this valley to be the oldest of which there is a definite record. Positive dates have been proved reaching back 8000 years.”

“One of the outstanding wonders of Babylon was the immense walls surrounding the city. The ancients ranked them with the great pyramid of Egypt as belonging to the ‘seven wonders of the world.’”

“Babylon was never entered by hostile armies until about 540 years before the birth of Christ. Even then the walls were not captured. The story of the fall of Babylon is most unusual. 

Cyrus, one of the great conquerors of that period, intended to attack the city  and hoped to take its impregnable walls. Advisors of Nabonidus, the King of Babylon, persuaded him to go forth to meet Cyrus and give him battle without waiting for the city to be besieged. 

In the succeeding defeat to the Babylonian army, it fled away from the city. Cyrus, thereupon, entered the open gates and took possession without resistance.”

“The eons of time have crumbled to dust the proud walls of its temples, but the wisdom of Babylon endures.”

Book Review (Personal Opinion):

This book changed my perception of money and financial success. I always thought that making money was a difficult thing to do and required a lot of risks of failure. 

In the end, this book proves that making money can’t be easier if you follow simple steps and listen to advise from wise and expert people in your business field.

My favorite thing about this book is the opportunity to learn through the main character, Arkad, story. Remembering his path, wise and stupid steps, and as the result, you can grow even faster while avoiding those mistakes.

The only reason why I didn’t give it a ten rate is because I sometimes felt there were too many similar stories, repeating the content from the previous ones.

Rating : 9/10

This Book Is For:

•       Young and ambitious man who is passionate about material success
•       Rich man who doesn’t know where to invest his money
•       Researchers and historians who study economics and archeology

If You Want To Learn More

Here’s the full audio version of the book: The Richest Man in Babylon- George S. Clason (FULL VERSION)

How I’ve Implemented The Ideas From The Book

As I already said, the book changed my way of thinking. Knowing the exact step of how to make money, now I only need to start. The first step, of course, is saving. 

I am up to doing it once more in my life, but this time knowing without fear that it cannot negatively affect spending because I learned how to control it.

One Small Actionable Step You Can Do

It is hard to say “small step” because every step from this book is necessary. It can be silly doing just one part of the mentioned steps, but it is just an opportunity to learn and keep going.  

Reading this book, you will ask yourself how much money you spent last year or month and for what? Be honest with yourself, you could spend less if you have had less, and you could spend more if you have had more. 

So, that is the point – start thinking about your future and your family. What do you have to leave them?

Bruno Boksic

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Narrative Summary of The Richest Man in Babylon

Overview: The Richest Man in Babylon is a classic personal finance book written by George S. Clason in 1926. Through a series of parables set in ancient Babylon, the book offers timeless financial advice and wisdom. As the reader, I found it to be an engaging and accessible way to learn fundamental principles for building wealth and achieving financial success. The stories illustrate key concepts like saving, investing wisely, and living below your means in a memorable way.

Main parts:

The book is structured as a series of parables or stories set in ancient Babylon, each illustrating important financial principles:

• The Man Who Desired Gold – Introduces the concept of financial education and seeking advice from those who are successful.
• The Richest Man in Babylon – Tells the story of Arkad, the richest man in Babylon, and how he achieved his wealth through disciplined saving and wise investing.
• Seven Cures for a Lean Purse – Outlines seven key principles for financial success, including saving at least 10% of your income, controlling expenses, and making your money work for you.
• Meet the Goddess of Good Luck – Emphasizes the importance of preparation and seizing opportunities.
• The Five Laws of Gold – Presents five fundamental laws for growing and protecting wealth.
• The Gold Lender of Babylon – Illustrates the power of lending money at interest and the importance of securing loans.
• The Walls of Babylon – Uses the strong walls of Babylon as a metaphor for financial protection and security.
• The Camel Trader of Babylon – Demonstrates the value of determination and learning from past mistakes.
• The Clay Tablets from Babylon – Shows how the ancient financial wisdom can be applied in modern times.
• The Luckiest Man in Babylon – Emphasizes the role of hard work and perseverance in achieving success.

View on Life:

The book presents several key viewpoints on life and success:

• Financial success is achievable for anyone willing to learn and apply sound principles.
• Wealth comes from disciplined saving, wise investing, and living below one’s means.
• Education and seeking advice from successful people is crucial for financial growth.
• Opportunities come to those who are prepared and willing to act.
• Hard work, determination and learning from mistakes are essential for long-term success.
• Financial security provides freedom and opportunities in life.
• One should always pay oneself first by saving a portion of income.
• Making money work for you through investments is key to building wealth.
• Controlling expenses and avoiding debt are crucial for financial health.
• Continuous self-improvement and increasing one’s ability to earn are important for long-term prosperity.
• Bansir the chariot builder and Kobbi the musician discussing their financial struggles and seeking advice from Arkad, the richest man in Babylon.
• Arkad teaching a class of 100 men the seven cures for a lean purse.
• A young man receiving and squandering an inheritance, then learning to rebuild his fortune using the five laws of gold.
• A slave working his way to freedom and eventual wealth through diligence and wise financial practices.
• A group of friends discussing luck and realizing that preparation and seizing opportunities are more important than chance.
• A money lender explaining the importance of securing loans and lending wisely.
• A young man learning the value of hard work and perseverance from a successful camel trader.

Challenges:

• Overcoming poverty and financial struggles
• Learning to save money consistently
• Controlling expenses and living below one’s means
• Making wise investment decisions
• Avoiding get-rich-quick schemes and unsound financial advice
• Rebuilding wealth after losses or setbacks
• Increasing one’s earning ability and value in the marketplace
• Balancing immediate desires with long-term financial goals
• Securing loans and managing debt responsibly
• Maintaining financial discipline in the face of temptation

The main conflicts in the book revolve around:

• The struggle between immediate gratification and long-term financial security
• Overcoming poverty and financial hardship
• Resisting the temptation to spend all one’s earnings
• Learning to make wise financial decisions versus following poor advice
• The challenge of increasing one’s earning ability in a competitive marketplace
• Rebuilding wealth and reputation after financial setbacks
• Balancing generosity and charitable giving with personal financial goals
• Overcoming self-doubt and developing the discipline for financial success

These conflicts are generally overcome through education, seeking wise counsel, developing self-discipline, and consistently applying sound financial principles.

While the book doesn’t have a single overarching plot, it uses a series of interconnected parables to convey its financial lessons. The stories generally follow a similar arc:

• A character faces financial struggles or seeks to improve their financial situation
• They seek advice from a wiser, more successful individual
• They learn key financial principles or laws
• They apply these principles, often facing challenges or setbacks
• Through persistence and discipline, they eventually achieve financial success
• They often then pass on their knowledge to others, continuing the cycle

This structure allows the reader to see the principles in action and understand how they can be applied in various situations.

Point of view:

The book is primarily written from a third-person omniscient point of view, with an unseen narrator recounting the various parables and lessons. However, many of the stories include first-person accounts from characters sharing their experiences and wisdom. This combination allows the author to provide broader context and commentary while also giving a personal, relatable touch to the financial lessons.

How it’s written:

The book is written in a simple, accessible style that uses storytelling to convey complex financial concepts. The language often mimics the formal, slightly archaic style of ancient texts, which adds to the feeling of timeless wisdom. For example:

“Opportunity is a haughty goddess who wastes no time with those who are unprepared.”

This style helps to create the atmosphere of ancient Babylon while still keeping the lessons clear and applicable to modern readers.

The overall tone of the book is:

• Instructive – The primary purpose is to teach financial principles
• Encouraging – It consistently reinforces that anyone can achieve financial success
• Wise – The advice is presented as timeless wisdom from the ancients
• Slightly formal – The language often has an old-fashioned, dignified quality
• Positive – It maintains an optimistic outlook on the possibility of financial success
• Practical – The advice given is meant to be immediately applicable
• Moralistic – There’s often an underlying message about the virtues of hard work, discipline, and wisdom

Life choices:

The book advocates for several key life choices:

• Choose to save at least 10% of your income
• Choose to live below your means
• Choose to seek financial education and advice from successful people
• Choose to make your money work for you through wise investments
• Choose to continually improve your skills and increase your earning ability
• Choose to avoid debt and impulsive spending
• Choose to plan for the future and secure your wealth
• Choose to be generous but also financially responsible
• Choose to learn from your mistakes and persist despite setbacks
• Choose to pass on your financial knowledge to others

The reasoning behind these choices is that they lead to long-term financial security, freedom, and the ability to live a prosperous life.

Key life lessons from the book include:

• Pay yourself first – save at least 10% of your income
• Live below your means – control your expenses
• Make your money work for you – invest wisely
• Increase your ability to earn – continuously improve your skills
• Protect your wealth – insure against loss and avoid risky investments
• Own your own home – make your dwelling a profitable investment
• Plan for the future – ensure a future income
• Be decisive and take action on opportunities
• Learn from both success and failure
• Seek wisdom and advice from those who are successful

These lessons are valuable because they provide a clear, actionable path to financial security and wealth building that can be applied in any era.

Characters:

• Arkad – The richest man in Babylon, who shares his wisdom on wealth building
• Bansir – A chariot builder struggling financially, who seeks Arkad’s advice
• Kobbi – A musician friend of Bansir, also seeking financial wisdom
• Algamish – A wealthy money lender who mentors young Arkad
• Mathon – Another wise money lender who shares insights on lending and borrowing
• Dabasir – A camel trader who shares his story of overcoming debt and achieving success
• Tarkad – A young man who learns valuable lessons from Dabasir
• Sharru Nada – A wealthy merchant who shares his rags-to-riches story
• Hadan Gula – Grandson of Arad Gula, who learns the value of work from Sharru Nada
• Megiddo – A slave who demonstrates the power of a positive attitude towards work

These characters serve as examples and teachers of the book’s financial principles, each bringing a unique perspective or lesson.

• Financial Wisdom – The overarching theme of acquiring and applying financial knowledge
• Personal Responsibility – Taking control of one’s financial destiny
• Discipline and Consistency – The importance of steady, disciplined action in building wealth
• Education and Self-Improvement – Continuously learning and increasing one’s value
• Opportunity and Preparation – Being ready to seize opportunities when they arise
• Work Ethic – The value of hard work and diligence in achieving success
• Delayed Gratification – Sacrificing short-term pleasures for long-term gain
• Generosity and Fairness – Balancing personal wealth-building with helping others
• Overcoming Adversity – Learning from failures and persisting despite setbacks
• Legacy – Passing on financial wisdom to future generations

These themes apply to readers by providing a framework for approaching personal finance and life in general, emphasizing the virtues and practices that lead to long-term success and security.

Principles:

• The principle of paying yourself first – saving a portion of all you earn
• The principle of living below your means – controlling expenses
• The principle of compound interest – making your money work for you
• The principle of diversification – guarding your treasures from loss
• The principle of homeownership – making your dwelling a profitable investment
• The principle of insurance – ensuring a future income
• The principle of self-improvement – increasing your ability to earn
• The principle of seeking wisdom – learning from those who are successful
• The principle of action – seizing opportunities when they arise
• The principle of persistence – learning from failure and never giving up

Intentions:

For the characters in the text:

• To achieve financial security and wealth
• To learn and apply financial wisdom
• To overcome poverty and debt
• To increase their value and earning potential
• To help others achieve financial success

For the reader:

• To learn timeless principles of personal finance
• To apply these principles in their own life
• To achieve financial security and build wealth
• To change their mindset about money and success
• To pass on financial wisdom to others

Unique Vocabulary:

• “Lean purse” – a state of poverty or lack of money
• “Fat purse” – a state of wealth or abundance of money
• “Gold slave” – money that works for you, earning more money
• “Goddess of Good Luck” – personification of opportunity and fortune
• “Clay tablets” – ancient records, used as a metaphor for timeless wisdom

These terms are used to make the financial concepts more tangible and memorable.

• The story of Arkad, a poor scribe who became the richest man in Babylon by consistently saving 10% of his income and seeking financial wisdom.
• The tale of the camel trader Dabasir, who escaped slavery and paid off his debts through hard work and applying sound financial principles.
• The account of Sharru Nada, who rose from slavery to become a wealthy merchant through diligence and a positive attitude towards work.

These stories illustrate how the financial principles can be applied in various life situations to overcome adversity and achieve success.

• Financial success is achievable for anyone willing to learn and apply sound principles
• Consistent saving and wise investing are key to building wealth
• Living below one’s means is crucial for long-term financial health
• Continuous self-improvement and increasing one’s earning ability are important for prosperity
• Seeking advice from successful individuals can accelerate financial growth
• Opportunities come to those who are prepared and willing to act
• Hard work and perseverance are essential for overcoming financial setbacks
• Making money work through investments is key to building lasting wealth
• Controlling expenses and avoiding debt are crucial for financial freedom
• Passing on financial wisdom to others is a valuable contribution to society

Facts and findings:

While the book is primarily composed of parables rather than factual accounts, it does present some historical context about ancient Babylon:

• Babylon was one of the wealthiest cities of the ancient world
• The city had advanced financial systems, including banking and lending
• Slavery was a common practice, but slaves could own property and even other slaves
• There was social mobility – individuals could rise from slavery to wealth through hard work and wise financial management

Statistics:

The book doesn’t present many specific statistics, but it does mention some numerical guidelines:

• Save at least 10% of your income
• Live on no more than 70% of your income
• Use 20% to repay debts if necessary
• Aim to turn every gold piece (unit of currency) into 100 through compound interest over a lifetime

Points of view:

The book presents financial wisdom primarily from the perspective of:

• Successful merchants and businessmen
• Former slaves who have achieved wealth
• Wise elders passing on knowledge to the younger generation
• Students eager to learn the secrets of financial success

These varied perspectives help to show how the principles can be applied by people in different life situations.

Perspective:

The overall perspective of the book is that:

• Financial success is achievable for anyone through discipline and wisdom
• Wealth is best built slowly and steadily rather than through get-rich-quick schemes
• Financial education and mentorship are crucial for success
• Hard work, integrity, and perseverance are key virtues for achieving wealth
• Financial principles are timeless and can be applied in any era
• Wealth brings responsibility, including the duty to use it wisely and help others
• True richness includes not just money, but also wisdom, respect, and the ability to help others

This perspective encourages readers to take a long-term, principled approach to building wealth and living a prosperous life. Read the full text here

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The Richest Man In Babylon | George S. Clason Books | A Self-Help English Book | Classic Life Changing | Rich Money Psychology | Dad Self Help in Hindi for Adults | of English Make Shith Magic do Thinking and Grow Big | Weekend Epic secret 2024 I Science Getting to Read Ever Hardcover Personality Development Combo Same as Improvement Rated Teenagers Inspirational under 200 | Classics Millionaire Mind reading learning Million Dollar Business set discipline 100 students Motivational Work Attitude | Everything is You Can | Think by Master Mindset Poor Shit I बुक्स मोटिवेशन, मोटिवेशनल, मे किताब, किताबें, Original Granth, ग्रंथ हिंदी में बुक्स, हिन्दी पुस्तक, किताबे Paperback – 21 June 2024

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• Print length 128 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Infinite Words; Latest edition (21 June 2024)
• Publication date 21 June 2024
• Dimensions 14.1 x 0.9 x 21.8 cm
• ISBN-10 9352206851
• ISBN-13 978-9352206858
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• Infinite Words is a Leading Indian Publisher with 50 years of extensive experience in the Book Industry.
• We are committed to publish world class literature with top production quality.
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Product description

About the author, product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Infinite Words; Latest edition (21 June 2024) (21 June 2024); Infinite Words; Latest edition (21 June 2024); 115, Mahatma Gandhi Nagar, Station Road, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar 431005, Maharashtra. Ph. 9881745605
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 128 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9352206851
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-9352206858
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 120 g
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 14.1 x 0.9 x 21.8 cm
• Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ India
• Packer ‏ : ‎ Infinite Words, An imprint of Saket Prakashan Pvt. Ltd. 115, Mahatma Gandhi Nagar, Station Road, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar 431005, Maharashtra. Ph. 9881745605
• Generic Name ‏ : ‎ Book

About the author

George s. clason.

George Samuel Clason (November 7, 1874 – April 7, 1957 ), also known as George S. Clason, was born in Louisiana, Missouri, and died in Napa, California.

During his eighty two years he was a soldier, businessman and writer. He served in the United States Army during the Spanish–American War.

Clason started two companies, the Clason Map Company of Denver Colorado and the Clason Publishing Company. The Clason Map Company was the first to publish a road atlas of the United States and Canada, and did not survive the Great Depression.

George Clason is best known for writing a series of informational pamphlets about being thrifty and how to achieve financial success. He started writing the pamphlets in 1926, using parables that were set in ancient Babylon. Banks and insurance companies began to distribute the parables, and the most famous ones were compiled into the book The Richest Man in Babylon. Clason's book "Gold Ahead" was renamed as The Richest Man in Babylon. Clason was married twice, the first time to Ida Ann Venable and the second to Anna Burt.

Bio from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.

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The Richest Man in Babylon

The archaic dialect of the book takes us back to the days of Babylon and its rich heritage. Initially it will be hard to go faster while reading, however once you get acclimatized to the dialect you will feel the financial insights along with the real spirit of Babylon. The book talks about basic financial discipline which everyone must validate and try to practice with patience. If you are already financially well planned with frugality and efficient savings, this book necessarily will reiterate many things through the life experience of the Babylonians to give a joy of right journey you are already in. Even though our finance conservations are right, we miss to be cautious at some places where we loose and be part of great regret. This book make us aware of many such events.

Here are my take aways from the book.

• Start to fatten your purse by saving a part of your earnings. So bare minimum is, one tenth of your salary must be saved regularly whatever the situation is. It is basically for you not for owners of restaurant, theatre etc.
• Budget the things which we desire to spend each month. Prioritize the necessary and others that are possible through the remaining nine tenth of your salary. Cross out the rest and consider them but a part of that great multitude of desire that must go unsatisfied and regret them not. Budget basically shows up the leak from your purse.
• Make the saved money to work for you by investing and protect the capital by getting advice from men wise in handling it.
• Invest in instruments which are familiar to you (circle of competence) and Avoid Alluring schemes with fanciful proposition which is always a trickster.
• Insure for future income for your family in the absence of you due to unprecedented events.
• Increase your ability to earn. The man who seeks to learn more of his skill shall be richly rewarded. We should never stop learning and keep upskilling ourself to be on front rank of progress.
• In our desire to help, don’t take upon ourselves the burden that belongs to another. Before lending to anyone remember yourselves that you labored each day, denied many things that your heart craved to make your savings. Be not swayed by foolish sentiment of obligation to anyone. Be a little caution than a great regret.

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The Richest Man in Babylon Paperback – January 1, 2019

• Pay yourself first.
• Don't trust a bricklayer to buy jewels. (Don't get caught up in other people's excitement. Go seek the experts instead.)
• Don't put all your eggs in a single basket. (Diversify your portfolio.)
• Control thy expenses. (Even the richest man has a time constraint on his life. Do what you enjoy, but don't overdo it.)
• Increase your ability to earn.
• Print length 142 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Sound Wisdom
• Publication date January 1, 2019
• Dimensions 5 x 0.32 x 8 inches
• ISBN-10 1640950494
• ISBN-13 978-1640950498
• See all details

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From the Publisher

The masterwork in personal finance

A proven system for attaining financial security.

“If you have not acquired more than a bare existence since ye were youths, it is because you either have failed to learn the laws that govern the building of wealth, or else you do not observe them.”

Anyone can build and maintain wealth

Arkad, known far and wide in ancient Babylon for his great wealth, reveals how he amassed riches and gained influence by implementing financial principles related to securing income, moderating spending, privileging savings, and investing intelligently. Through a series of engaging parables, readers discover how they, too, can apply these commonsense strategies to achieve financial independence.

Essential financial principles covered include:

• Pay yourself first
• Live within your means
• Increase your capacity for earning
• Minimize risk in financial investments
• Attract good luck
• Secure an income stream

Originally circulated as pamphlets by banks and insurance companies

Initially distributed as a series of pamphlets by US banks and insurance companies, the stories were collected in The Richest Man of Babylon in 1926. Nearly 100 years later, the parables continue to inspire readers around the world to take control of their finances and enjoy the freedom that effective money management brings.

Publishing tycoon George S. Clason shares his financial wisdom in these Babylonian parables

George Samuel Clason was born on November 7, 1974 in a small town in Missouri. After serving in the United States Army during the Spanish-American War, he built an illustrious career in publishing and founded one of the most successful map companies in America. Identifying the great advantages available to those who follow simple financial principles, he recast elementary lessons in savings and investment as parables set in ancient Babylon.

This reproduction of the 1926 edition includes:

• The Richest Man in Babylon Tells His System
• Out of the Ruins of Babylon
• Seven Remedies for a Lean Purse
• The Treasures of Babylon
• The Babylon Course in Financial Success

The classic book for learning MONEY BASICS

Editorial Reviews

About the author, product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Sound Wisdom (January 1, 2019)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 142 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1640950494
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1640950498
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 5.6 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 0.32 x 8 inches
• #273 in Entrepreneurship (Books)
• #556 in Personal Finance (Books)

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Honest Reviews From Real People

This Book Taught Me How I Should Treat Money

About the author

George s. clason.

George Samuel Clason (November 7, 1874 – April 7, 1957 ), also known as George S. Clason, was born in Louisiana, Missouri, and died in Napa, California.

During his eighty two years he was a soldier, businessman and writer. He served in the United States Army during the Spanish–American War.

Clason started two companies, the Clason Map Company of Denver Colorado and the Clason Publishing Company. The Clason Map Company was the first to publish a road atlas of the United States and Canada, and did not survive the Great Depression.

George Clason is best known for writing a series of informational pamphlets about being thrifty and how to achieve financial success. He started writing the pamphlets in 1926, using parables that were set in ancient Babylon. Banks and insurance companies began to distribute the parables, and the most famous ones were compiled into the book The Richest Man in Babylon. Clason's book "Gold Ahead" was renamed as The Richest Man in Babylon. Clason was married twice, the first time to Ida Ann Venable and the second to Anna Burt.

Bio from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.

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