selah

Selah is a term found in the Hebrew Bible, most often in the Book of Psalms. Its exact meaning is uncertain, and scholars debate its function. It is generally understood as a liturgical or musical mark, possibly signaling a pause, a musical interlude, or a moment of reflection for the reader or singer. In many English translations, the word remains untranslated as Selah, while some editions render it as “pause” or “interlude.”

Biblical usage and interpretation

Selah appears repeatedly in psalms and, less commonly, in other biblical passages. Because it is not defined within the text, its precise purpose is inferred from context and from ancient musical practices. The term is treated as a direction for performers or listeners rather than as a word with a direct translation. The lack of consensus about its meaning contributes to its retention as a transliterated term in many modern Bibles.

Other uses

Selah is also the name of a city in Yakima County, Washington, United States. The name has been adopted as a given name for people, particularly in the United States, where it is used for girls. In contemporary culture, Selah is the name of an American Christian vocal group formed in the 1990s, known for harmonies and performances of hymns and contemporary praise songs.

Summary

Selah serves as a historical biblical term with debated meaning, commonly viewed as a musical or liturgical direction. Beyond its biblical usage, it appears as a place name, a given name, and the name of a musical group.