Translations
Modern
There is hope, however, for anyone who is among the living; for even a live dog is better than a dead lion.
Traditional
For to him that is joined to all the living there is hope: for a living dog is better than a dead lion.
Literal
For whoever that is joined to all the living, there is hope, for a living dog is better than a lion that is dead;
Latin
Nemo est qui semper vivat, et qui hujus rei habeat fiduciam; melior est canis vivus leone mortuo.
Original
Hebrew
English
There is hope, however, for anyone who is among the living; for even a live dog is better than a dead lion.
Notes
Hope for enjoyment exists only if the person hoping is alive. So, it is better to be alive (compare Ecclesiastes 6:3; 7:1).
From observing life, it seems death often lacks meaning. Why do some people die while others live longer? God's decision on this is unpredictable (Ecclesiastes 7:13–14).
Theme notes and profiles
Glossary
Topics
Death: Preparation For Hades: The Realm (State) of the Dead Hope: Life is the Season of Lion: Proverb of