And I saw how it allied the two heads with itself: This clause probably refers to Vespasian founding the Flavian dynasty of Roman emperors. His two sons Titus and Domitian were appointed to public office during his reign, and they became emperors after him. This clause may be rendered “I watched and saw it join the other two heads to itself [or, make allies of the other two heads].”

And behold, the head turned with those that were with it, and it devoured the two little wings which were planning to reign: The two little wings cannot be identified with any historical figures with confidence. Clearly, however, they represent men with ambitions to challenge the heads, the Flavian emperors.

We suggest the following model for verse 31:

• I watched it as it turned to the other two heads. Then together the three of them ate the two little wings that had plans to seize power.

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.