Ecclesiastes 9:4-7 New International Reader's Version (NIRV)

4. Anyone who is living still has hope. Even a live dog is better off than a dead lion!

5. People who are still alive know they'll die. But those who have died don't know anything. They don't receive any more rewards. And they are soon forgotten.

6. Their love, hate and jealousy disappear. They will never share again in anything that happens on earth.

7. Go and enjoy your food. Be joyful as you drink your wine. Now is the time God favors what you do.

Ecclesiastes 9