In the verses 74-78 it is not always clear who the speaker is. We think it best to follow Good News Bible in assuming that the Lord is the speaker throughout these verses.

“Hear, my elect,” says the Lord: In many languages it will be better to begin this verse with the quote frame says the Lord. Good News Bible uses indirect speech for Hear, my elect by saying “But listen to what the Lord says,” which is an acceptable model.

Behold, the days of tribulation are at hand, and I will deliver you from them: For the word Behold, which highlights the words that follow, see 2 Esd 6.18. Here it may be combined with Hear.

Alternative models for this verse are:

• Here is what the Lord says: “Listen to me, my chosen people. A time of terrible suffering [or, persecution] is coming soon, but I will rescue you.

• … Very soon your enemies will persecute you terribly, but I will save you.

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.