NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.
13 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
James 5:8 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.
15 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.
16 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
You, too, must be patient. Take courage, for the coming of the Lord is near.
15 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
Be patient like that. Stay steady and strong. The Master could arrive at any time.
15 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.
15 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
13 words
KJV
15 words
ESV
16 words
NLT
15 words
MSG
15 words
NASB
15 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for James 5:8?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers James 5:8 in 6 translations: New International Version, King James Version, English Standard Version, New Living Translation, The Message, New American Standard Bible. Each uses a different translation philosophy — from word-for-word (KJV, ESV, NASB) to thought-for-thought (NIV, NLT) to paraphrase (MSG).
Which translation of James 5:8 is best?
No single translation is "best" — it depends on your purpose. For deep study, use the ESV or NASB (word-for-word). For devotional reading, the NIV balances accuracy and readability. The NLT and MSG are excellent for understanding the general meaning in modern English. Comparing multiple translations helps grasp the full richness of the text.
What is the difference between literal and dynamic Bible translations?
Literal (formal equivalence) translations like KJV, ESV, and NASB translate word-for-word from the original Hebrew/Greek. Dynamic equivalence translations like NIV and NLT translate thought-for-thought for clarity. The MSG is a paraphrase that captures the spirit in contemporary language. Each approach has strengths — that's why comparing translations is valuable.