NIV
New International Version · 1978 (rev. 2011)
But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger.
20 words · Balance of accuracy and readability
Romans 2:8 — Compare Translations
Read this verse in 6 Bible translations — from word-for-word to thought-for-thought.
Dynamic equivalence
KJV
King James Version · 1611
But unto them that are contentious , and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,
19 words · Formal / word-for-word
ESV
English Standard Version · 2001 (rev. 2016)
but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury.
21 words · Essentially literal
NLT
New Living Translation · 1996 (rev. 2015)
But he will pour out his anger and wrath on those who live for themselves, who refuse to obey the truth and instead live lives of wickedness.
27 words · Thought-for-thought clarity
MSG
The Message · 2002
but to those who insist on getting their own way and take the path of least resistance, Fire!
18 words · Contemporary paraphrase
NASB
New American Standard Bible · 1971 (rev. 2020)
but to those who are selfishly ambitious and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, wrath and indignation.
19 words · Most literal English translation
Translation Length Comparison
NIV
20 words
KJV
19 words
ESV
21 words
NLT
27 words
MSG
18 words
NASB
19 words
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Bible translations are there for Romans 2:8?
Bible Verse Randomizer offers Romans 2:8 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 Romans 2:8 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.