2 Esdras 4:16

16 But the plan of the forest was in vain, for the fire came and consumed it;

2 Esdras 4:16 In-Context

14 and said, "Come, let us go and make war against the sea, so that it may recede before us and so that we may make for ourselves more forests.'

15 In like manner the waves of the sea also made a plan and said, "Come, let us go up and subdue the forest of the plain so that there also we may gain more territory for ourselves.'

16 But the plan of the forest was in vain, for the fire came and consumed it;

17 likewise also the plan of the waves of the sea was in vain, for the sand stood firm and blocked it.

18 If now you were a judge between them, which would you undertake to justify, and which to condemn?"