2 Esdras 4:39

39 And for our sakes perhaps it is that the floors of the righteous are not filled, because of the sins of those who dwell upon the earth."

2 Esdras 4:39 In-Context

37 By measure hath He measured the times, and by number hath He numbered the times; and He doth not move nor stir them until the said measure be fulfilled.'"

38 Then answered I and said, "O Lord who bearest rule, even we all are full of impiety.

39 And for our sakes perhaps it is that the floors of the righteous are not filled, because of the sins of those who dwell upon the earth."

40 So he answered me and said, "Go thy way to a woman with child, and ask of her if, when she hath fulfilled her nine months, her womb may keep the birth any longer within her."

41 Then said I, "No, lord, that can she not." And he said unto me, "In the grave the chambers of souls are like the womb of a woman;