1. And he answered me, and said, The Most High has made this world for many, but the world to come for few.
2. I will tell you now a similitude, Esdras; As when you asks the earth, it shall say to you, that it gives very much mould whereof earthen vessels are made, and little dust that gold comes of: even so is the course of the present world.
3. There be many created, but few shall be saved.
4. And I answered and said, Swallow down understanding then, O my soul, and let my heart devour wisdom.
5. For you are come here without your will, and depart when you would not: for there is given you no longer space than only to live a short time.