The Richest Man in Babylon

The warrior Banzar helps to guard Babylon’s city gates as the city is under attack from Assyrian armies. A panicked, elderly merchant asks Banzar for news about the enemy army, as he has a good view of their surroundings. Banzar reassures the man that Babylon’s walls will hold, and the enemy troops will not break through. A mother comes along and asks the same question, and again Banzar reassures her and tells her to go home to her sick husband. A small, frightened child approaches Banzar and he again promises her that the walls will keep her safe.

For weeks, the enemy unsuccessfully tries to breach Babylon’s wall, and Banzar watches the enemy troops being wounded and killed. Finally, Babylon’s forces let out a joyful cry and light the “flames of victory” in the temple (66). Babylon’s citizens rush from their houses and celebrate their victory and safety. Clason calls Babylon’s walls an “outstanding example of man’s need and desire for protection…It is just as strong as it ever was, but we have developed broader and better plans to accomplish the same purpose” (66). Clason compares today’s savings accounts, good investments, and insurance schemes to the protective walls of