Selah

Selah s a Hebrew word which appears in the Bible and Old Testament (over 70 times, in fact), especially in Psalms. A somewhat esoteric concept, “selāh” (סֶלָה) is more instructional rather than descriptive in the Bible. While reading Psalms, the reader is instructed to “stop and listen” and to reflect on the song. Because Psalms are poetic words written for the lyre then “selah” has come to indicate a “musical pause” – sort of like the equivalent of “Amen” in written, spoken text. Selah basically says “Stop” and consider the weight of what’s just been sung; take a moment to pause and reflect upon it. Alternate etymologists claim “selah” means “forever” or “to hang”, which, in our opinion, are meanings that imply the same idea. Take it in, breathe it, weigh it, reflect upon it and absorb it. In the book of Psalms in the Old Testament, the “choir-master” is constantly instructed with the word “selah”. Selah is therefore an original, obscure Biblical name. A beautiful concept for musician parents. Just ask singer/songwriter Lauryn Hill; she named her baby girl Selah Louise Marley in 1998 (Selah Louise also happens to be the granddaughter of Bob Marley). Selah is a name distinct to the United States. Interestingly, despite its Hebrew origins, Selah is not a female name used among Jewish people.