23
For it was not my mind to be curious of the high things, but of such as pass by us daily, namely: why Israel is given up as a reproach to the heathen, and for what cause the people whom thou hast loved is given over unto ungodly nations, and why the law of our forefathers is brought to nought and the written covenants come to no effect,
24
and we pass away out of the world as grasshoppers, and our life is astonishment and fear, and we are not worthy to obtain mercy.
25
What will He then do unto His name whereby we are called? Of these things have I asked."
26
Then answered he me and said, "The more thou searchest, the more thou shalt marvel; for the world hasteneth fast to pass away,
27
and cannot comprehend the things that are promised to the righteous in time to come; for this world is full of unrighteousness and infirmities.
28
But concerning the things whereof thou askest me, I will tell thee; for the evil is sown, but the destruction thereof has not yet come.
29
If therefore that which is sown be not turned upside down, and if the place where the evil is sown pass not away, then it cannot come that is sown with good.
30
For the grain of evil seed hath been sown in the heart of Adam from the beginning, and how much ungodliness hath it brought up unto this time? And how much shall it yet bring forth until the time of threshing come!
31
Ponder now by thyself how great the fruit of wickedness the grain of evil seed hath brought forth.
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And when the ears shall be cut down, which are without number, how great a floor shall they fill?"
33
Then I answered and said, "How and when shall these things come to pass? Why are our years few and evil?"