Five Pillars of Prosperity ― Essentials of Faith-based Wealth Building

Five Pillars of Prosperity: Essentials of Faith-Based Wealth Building by Dr. M. Yaqub Mirza provides readers with a balanced and sensible approach to financial planning and security. The book is unique in that it is written by a leading Muslim financial expert who draws on Islamic teachings while showing how these Islamic values are consistent with Jewish and Christian values. Though the primary audience may be American Muslims, anyone interested in financial security will find this practical guide helpful in making wise financial decisions.

Dr. Mirza presents a powerful and provocative case for arranging one’s life ? and the material pursuits ? in ways that not only benefit the reader but also society at large. He shows how the attainment of wealth and prosperity can be achieved by following five key activities: Earning, Saving, Investing, Spending, and Giving.

The author closes with a discussion on wealth building strategies and wealth preservation. Additionally, he has provided a section of resources and an extensive bibliography for further reading. The book is rich in investment strategies and advice and though the topic is often complex Dr. Mirza’s writings are clear and accessible to a general audience.

Dr. M. Yaqub Mirza is the president and CEO of Sterling Management Group, Inc. and Sterling Advisory Services, Inc. Sterling negotiates mergers, acquisitions and sales of various sized companies located in different parts of the world. Sterling and its affiliates have managed investments in the United States, Canada, Chile, Egypt, Malaysia, Turkey and Zimbabwe. In addition, Dr. Mirza has more than 30 years of experience in stock investments and portfolio management. He is a member and Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Amana Mutual Funds, which is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission as an open-end investment company. He also serves as Chairman of its Executive Committee and is a member of its Audit and Compliance Committee. Assets under management are nearly $3.5 billion.

Dr. Mirza is a member of the Board of Directors, University Islamic Financial Corporation and is a member of the Board of Trustees, George Mason University Foundation, Inc. He also serves on the Board of numerous other companies, including several not-for-profits. Dr. Mirza holds a M.Sc. from University of Karachi (1969), a Ph.D. in Physics (1974) and M.A. in Teaching Science (1975) from the University of Texas at Dallas. Dr. Mirza is a United States citizen and has resided in Herndon, VA area for the past 28 years.