2 Esdras 12:44

44 If you abandon us, it would have been better if we had died like the others in the fire that destroyed Jerusalem.

2 Esdras 12:44 In-Context

42 You are the only one of all our prophets who is left. You are like the last bunch of grapes in a vineyard, like a lantern in a dark place, like a safe harbor for a ship in a storm.

43 Haven't we suffered enough already?

44 If you abandon us, it would have been better if we had died like the others in the fire that destroyed Jerusalem.

45 We are no better than those who died." Then they all started crying loudly. I answered,

46 "Be brave, Israel, put away your sorrow.