56 But silver is more numerous than gold, and bronze than silver, and iron than bronze, lead than iron, and clay than lead.
57 Decide yourself then which things are precious and desirable, what is abundant or what is rare."
58 I said, "Supreme Lord, that which is abundant is cheaper, because what is more rare is valuable."
59 He replied to me: "Reflect on what you have thought. One who has what is scarce rejoices more than one who has what is abundant.
60 So also will be the judgment I have promised. I will rejoice over the few who will be saved, because they are the ones who made my honor to prevail now and through whom my reputation is celebrated.
61 I will have no regrets over the multitude who perish, for they are even now like vapor, the equivalent of flame or smoke; they burn and flare up and are quenched."
62 I replied: "Earth, what have you brought to birth? If consciousness is made of dust like other creatures,