en_tn_condensed/ecc/09/04.md

the living ... the dead

This refers to people who are alive and people who are dead. Alternate translation: "who are alive ... those who are dead" (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj)

just as a living dog is better than a dead lion

A "dog" was considered a lowly animal while a lion was considered a noble animal. This speaks of it being better to be lowly and alive than to be considered noble and dead. Alternate translation: "It is better to be lowly like a dog and to be alive than to be noble like a lion and to be dead" (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile)