BOOK REVIEW: THE RICHEST MAN IN BABYLON
Book Reviewed by Patrick Blair on April 13, 2026
The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason Originally Published in 1926
First Impression Versus Lasting Impression: This is a collection of timeless tales that convey timeless wisdom. The collection met my expectation of hearing ancient wisdom and exceeded my expectations as to its depth in application to modern-day life.
The Book in a Word: WISE.
Summary: The book is actually a collection of pamphlets given out by banks and insurance companies in the 1920s. It is written in a parable style and set in ancient Babylon, which gives it the mystique of ancient wisdom. I prominently mentioned this in Faith and Finances as one of my formative influences. The collection drives home the basics of personal finance and investing. It even makes sensible ties from personal finances into the larger societal order.
What I Liked the Most: I really enjoyed the relatable, ancient characters used to tell the story. They are good people trying to make a better life. The collection sets forth a comprehensive set of financial basics in a very memorable way.
What I liked the least: The collection is a little disorderly in flow and structure. It would be easier to read if it was one narrative, but it was a collection of pamphlets. I don’t have much to criticize for this classic work.
Recommended for: to anyone who wants to learn about personal finance, investing, and having a more prosperous life.
Not Recommended for: those who want a very straightforward how to guide to personal finances. That being said, ‘how to’ guides are a dime a dozen and usually boring.
Faith-finances.com Website Categories Covered: Personal Finance, Investing
Reading Level: Basic … Intermediate … Advanced … Scholarly.
Interesting Concept: That people can be puzzled as to why they don’t get ahead financially in life even when they work very hard. People subconsciously believe that their hard work and devotion to country will yield them lasting prosperity, but it is not the case. If you seek wealth and apply discipline in your quest, there is an energy that carries you along and magic that makes your wealth multiply.
Great Quotes: “We have been satisfied to work long hours and spend our earnings freely. […] We live in the richest city in all the world […], but of it we ourselves have naught.” (The Tale of the Man Who Desired Much Gold). “If you have not acquired more than a bare existence in the years since we 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.” (The Richest Man in Babylon Tells His System). “Every gold piece you save is a slave to work for you. Every copper it earns is its child that also can earn for you.” (Same). “Wealth grows in magic ways.” (Same).
Spiritual Content: Limited. The collection touts various types of helpful discipline but doesn’t directly promote generosity or devotion to God.
Book Citation: Clason, George S. The Richest Man in Babylon. Place of Publication Not Identified: Dauphin Publications, 2017. (The book was originally published in 1926). The Faith and Finances Ministry is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program where it earns fees when readers purchase this product through the Amazon.com link provided.
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