2 Esdras 8:35-37

New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised

³⁵ For in truth there is no one among those who have been born who has not acted wickedly; among those who have existed^[a] there is no one who has not done wrong. ³⁶ For in this, O Lord, your righteousness and goodness will be declared, when you are merciful to those who have no store of good works.’

Response to Ezra’s Prayer

³⁷ He answered me and said, ‘Some things you have spoken rightly, and it will turn out according to your words.