The King James Version Bible

2 Esdras 8:1-4

  1. And he answered me, saying, The most High hath made this world for many, but the world to come for few.

  2. I will tell thee a similitude, Esdras; As when thou askest the earth, it shall say unto thee, that it giveth much mould whereof earthen vessels are made, but little dust that gold cometh of: even so is the course of this present world.

  3. There be many created, but few shall be saved.

  4. So answered I and said, Swallow then down, O my soul, understanding, and devour wisdom.