45
I replied: "I said before, Lord, and I say now: Privileged are those now living who observe what you have commanded.
46
But what of those who were the subject of my prayer? Who is there of all the living who hasn't sinned, or who among those who have been born hasn't transgressed your covenant?
47
Now I see that the world to come will bring delight to few but torment to many.
48
The inclination to do evil grew in us. It alienated us and led us into corruption and the paths that lead to death. It showed us the way to damnation and removed us far from life—and this happened not to a few people but to nearly all who were created."
49
He replied to me: "Listen to me, and I will instruct you and will advise you yet again.