10/05/2026
This picture is built around one of the most important truths taught in the Bible — the condition of the dead and Jehovah’s promise of the resurrection. Using the language and understanding from the Jehovah's Witnesses and the New World Translation of the Holy Scriptures, the image explains how Satan’s original lie in Eden confused mankind about death.
At the very top, the large words “YOU WILL NOT DIE” point directly to the conversation between Eve and the serpent in the Garden of Eden.
“At this the serpent said to the woman: ‘You certainly will not die.’”
— Genesis 3:4, NWT
According to the Bible, this was the first lie ever told. Jehovah had already warned Adam that disobedience would result in death.
“In the day you eat from it, you will certainly die.”
— Genesis 2:17, NWT
The picture of Eve listening to the serpent represents how Satan challenged Jehovah’s truthfulness and introduced the false teaching that humans continue living after death in another form.
The dark middle section of the picture shows fear, confusion, spiritism, and human sorrow. Many religions teach that the dead are conscious somewhere — in heaven, hellfire, purgatory, or able to communicate with the living. But the Bible teaches something very different.
The open Bible and grave scene highlight the clear truth found in Ecclesiastes.
“For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing at all.”
— Ecclesiastes 9:5, NWT
And verse 10 says:
“There is no work nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom in the Grave, where you are going.”
— Ecclesiastes 9:10, NWT
This means death is a state of complete unconsciousness. The dead are not suffering, watching over family members, or communicating with humans. The image uses darkness and silence around the grave to symbolize this condition.
The empty tomb in the artwork points to the hope Jehovah gives through Jesus Christ. When Jesus spoke about Lazarus, he compared death to sleep.
“Lazarus our friend has fallen asleep.”
— John 11:11, NWT
Later Jesus plainly explained:
“Lazarus has died.”
— John 11:14, NWT
Why did Jesus use sleep as an illustration? Because sleep is temporary. A sleeping person can be awakened. In the same way, Jehovah can restore life to those who have died.
The bright lower section of the picture changes from darkness to light. Families embracing, smiling, and reuniting represent the resurrection hope.
Jesus promised:
“The hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out.”
— John 5:28, 29, NWT
This is one of the central teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses — that millions who have died will live again on a peaceful earth under God’s Kingdom.
The joyful reunion scene also reflects the promise found in Revelation:
“He will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more.”
— Revelation 21:4, NWT