2 Esdras 8:2-4

Common English Bible

² But I will tell you a parable, Ezra. Just as when you ask the earth and it tells you that it provides much clay to make earthenware, but little dust from which gold comes to be, so the present world also works. ³ Many indeed are created, but few will be saved.”

⁴ I replied: “Therefore, take delight^[a] in understanding, my soul, and drink your fill of knowledge.^[b]