2 Esdras 7:53

53 I said, "Lord, how could that be?" Or that a paradise shall be revealed, whose fruit remains unspoiled and in which are abundance and healing, but we shall not enter it,

2 Esdras 7:53 In-Context

51 For whereas you have said that the righteous are not many but few, while the ungodly abound, hear the explanation for this. Or that safe and healthful habitations have been reserved for us, but we have lived wickedly?

52 "If you have just a few precious stones, will you add to them lead and clay?" Or that the glory of the Most High will defend those who have led a pure life, but we have walked in the most wicked ways?

53 I said, "Lord, how could that be?" Or that a paradise shall be revealed, whose fruit remains unspoiled and in which are abundance and healing, but we shall not enter it,

54 And he said to me, "Not only that, but ask the earth and she will tell you; defer to her, and she will declare it to you. because we have lived in unseemly places?

55 Say to her, `You produce gold and silver and brass, and also iron and lead and clay; Or that the faces of those who practiced self-control shall shine more than the stars, but our faces shall be blacker than darkness?