Whose throne is beyond measure and whose glory is beyond comprehension: In this context the word throne refers to God’s “majesty” as King, and so does the word glory (see the comments on 2 Esd 2.11). In rabbinic sources the phrase “Throne of Glory” became a reference to God himself (see Stone, page 273). These two clauses are parallel in meaning, so they may be combined by saying “Your majesty and glory are far beyond anything that we can measure or understand.”

Before whom the hosts of angels stand trembling: The Latin word for hosts is literally “armies.” Even those beings who live in God’s presence to serve him tremble before his awesome presence (compare 1 Kgs 22.19).

A model of this verse is given at the end of the discussion on the next one.

Quoted with permission from Bullard, Roger A. and Hatton, Howard A. A Handbook on 1-2 Esdras. (UBS Helps for Translators). Miami: UBS, 2019. For this and other handbooks for translators see here.