2 Esdras 8:29-31

Revised Standard Version

²⁹ Let it not be thy will to destroy those who have had the ways of cattle; but regard those who have gloriously taught thy law.^{[a] 30} Be not angry with those who are deemed worse than beasts; but love those who have always put their trust in thy glory. ³¹ For we and our fathers have passed our lives in ways that bring death;^[b] but thou, because of us sinners, are called merciful.