On Live Dogs and Dead Lions
Ecclesiastes 9:4 says, “…a living dog is better than a dead lion.” The writer of Ecclesiastes makes some intriguing observations, and this one stands out as particularly thought-provoking. At first glance, it’s almost humorous, but it invites deeper reflection. Why would this statement be true?
The answer is surprisingly simple: a living dog experiences life. Dogs take naps, get back rubs, offer affection by licking people, and go through their daily routines—walking, eating, sleeping, and yes, even the less glamorous parts like pooping. The dog is simply alive. In contrast, a dead lion is just that—dead.
Lions symbolize power, strength, and leadership. They inspire awe and sometimes fear. But once dead, that reputation means nothing. A dead lion is powerless and insignificant, regardless of the strength it once held.
Solomon’s point is clear: life itself, with all its imperfections and limitations, is more valuable than the mere appearance or potential of greatness that no longer lives. It’s a call to embrace life fully, even if the life we have doesn’t match the ideals we aspire to.
We may feel like a “live dog” in comparison to the “dead lions” of imagined greatness or past glories. This can be especially true in ministry, where expectations and comparisons can weigh heavily.
Here is what to keep in mind: being alive—actively living out your faith and purpose—is what matters most. It’s better to be a living dog, engaged and responsive to God’s grace today, than a dead lion, remembered only for past strength but no longer serving God’s kingdom. Embrace the life you have, for it is a gift and opportunity to glorify God and impact others through love, acceptance, and forgiveness.
On the cross, the Lion of Judah, the Creator of the Universe—the one who should truly strike fear and terror into the heart of humankind—died. He became a dead lion so that we could be live dogs: who get backrubs, go for walks, and get fed. But He also rose from the dead—not like a live dog, but like a living lion who will rule, reign, and lead.
His lion-like qualities are full of compassion, inviting us to be live dogs in submission to His reign. He frees us to live in wonderful celebration of His leadership. With Him as our living lion, we need not fear anything. Furthermore, we can accept our role in life as “live dogs” (or otherwise) and enjoy it. Dogs are notoriously faithful to their masters who feed them, take them for walks, and give them a warm place to sleep.
Let us encourage our congregations to think of Christ as a living lion who leads, rules, and reigns—even when they feel like dogs. And let us embrace our place as “live dogs” in a world that never seems satisfied with just being normal, good, fair, and just.
