Q: In reading the Psalms I've often come across the word "Selah." What does this word mean?

A: The word "Selah" is of Hebrew origin, but its exact meaning has been lost to history. It occurs seventy-three times in the Book of Psalms and is also found in the prophecy of Habakkuk. Many biblical scholars believe it to be a liturgical notation meaning "to pause" or "to reflect" on the words we have just read or recited. While other scholars believe it to simply be a musical cue informing the cantor or director to either sing that verse with greater emphasis or to sing a refrain after it, such as "Alleluia." However, despite our best guesses, the actual meaning of this word remains a mystery.

Fr. John