There is not a definite consensus about the meaning of the word selah, found in the Bible in the book of Psalms, where it appears seventy one times. It is also found three times in the book of Habbakuk. Some say it simply means a musical interlude. Others say that the word selah is a word that means to stop and think. Strong's concordance says it means to lift up or exalt. In other words, it's an instruction in the text to pause, reflect on the truth you've just heard or read, then respond in praise.
I think there are some helpful insights from these definitions of the word selah. Most include the concept of stopping or pausing-in other words, resting. Another definition reminds us to pause and then to refocus our mind on the truth that has just been read or heard. Another definition instructs us not to only stop and refocus our mind, but to respond in praise.
The next time you come across the word selah in your Bible reading, let it remind you of these three Rs. Rest, Refocus, Respond in praise. Here's a good passage for you to practice on-
“Be still, and know that I am God.
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth!”
11
The Lord of hosts is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Selah"
Psalm 46:10-11
still following,
Selah is such a peaceful word. Thank you for the definition and for the 3 Rs. I'm going to write them down so I don't forget!
ReplyDeleteGod is working in me in this area, Laura. I need to learn to "selah"!
DeleteI also thought it meant to rest and pause, like a musical rest. I need the reminder and I need a good Sabbath in every day. thanks, elizabeth!
ReplyDeleteI need the reminder as well!
DeleteI'm familiar with Selah as a musical pause, but I like that it's also an instruction for me to pause and think about the truth of the words and to praise God in my heart during the musical interlude!
ReplyDeleteI am learning to rest, to meditate, to wait in God's presence as well, Kym!
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