What does 'selah' mean?
Psalms 1:1 - 6
ESV - 1 Book One Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers. 2 But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.
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Asked July 01 2013
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Anonymous (via GotQuestions)
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S. Michael Houdmann
Supporter
The word "selah" is found in two books of the Bible, but is most prevalent in the Psalms, where it appears 71 times. It also appears three times in the third chapter of the minor prophet Habakkuk. ...
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Thomas Riccardi
Supporter
As a worship leader and otherwise musician, I have learned that Selah means "pause" There is however a lot of chatter in theological circles about the true meaning of this word. Knowing that David played music to and for the Lord as well as himself, I can understand how "pause" would be the proper answer to this question. God Bless!
Jack Gutknecht
Supporter
According to the Nave Topical Bible, "Selah is a term appearing frequently in the Psalms. Its use is not known. Possibly it signified a pause in the vocal music while an instrumental interlude or finale was rendered.” As far as I can recall, it is translated, "pause and think of that" in the Amplified Bible. For example, "Salvation belongs to the Lord; May Your blessing be upon Your people. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!" --Psalm 3:8 The popular Christian musical group today says their "name means to 'lift up the voice in praise'."
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