17
Likewise also the plan of the waves of the sea, for the sand stood firm and prevented it.
18
If then you were judge of these, which would you begin to justify and which to condemn?"
19
I answered, "Each made a stupid plan, for land is given to the forest, and the sea is the appointed place for its waves."
20
Uriel answered me: "You have judged well. So why haven't you judged well in your own case?
21
As the land is given to the forest and the sea to the waves, so also only those who live on earth can understand the things that are on earth, and only those who live above the heavens can understand the things that are above the height of the heavens."
22
I answered, "I beg you, Lord, why has the sense of understanding been given to me?
23
It wasn't my purpose to ask about the ways above but about the things that we see every day. Why has Israel been handed over to the Gentiles to our shame? Why has the people you loved been given over to godless tribes? Why has the Law of our ancestors been invalidated and the written ordinances come to nothing?
24
Why do we pass from the world like locusts and our life like a mist? Why aren't we worthy to obtain mercy?
25
What will God do for the sake of his name, which is bestowed on us? About these things I have asked."
26
He answered me: "If you remain alive, you'll see. If you live, you will often be amazed, because the world is indeed rushing to its end.
27
Indeed, it can't bring the things that are promised to the just during this age, because this world is full of sadness and sickliness.