2 Esdras 8:5

5 You came into the world unwillingly, and against your will you depart, and you are given but a little while to live.

2 Esdras 8:5 In-Context

3 Many indeed are created, but few will be saved."

4 I replied: "Therefore, take delight in understanding, my soul, and drink your fill of knowledge.

5 You came into the world unwillingly, and against your will you depart, and you are given but a little while to live.

6 Lord above us—if you will permit your servants to pray before you—give us seed for the heart and cultivation for the understanding that there may be fruit from which every mortal who bears the form of a human being may live.

7 You alone exist, and we are your handiwork, as you have said.

Footnotes

• [a] Versions lack into the world.
• [b] Versions; Lat misread the Gk.