But the angel who had come and talked with me held me and strengthened me and set me on my feet: Compare Dan 8.18; 10.10-11. In many languages it will be helpful to identify the angel as “the angel Uriel” (Contemporary English Version). Held me does not mean “embraced me,” but rather “took hold of me.” The angel took hold of Ezra and steadied him as he stood. Possible models for this verse are:

• But the angel Uriel who had come and spoken to me took hold of me, strengthened me, and helped me stand up.

• But the angel who had come and talked with me gave me strength. He took hold of me, and set me on my feet.

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.