from an unused root meaning to be lofty; a craggy rock, literally or figuratively (a fortress); (ragged) rock, stone(-ny), strong hold.
Transliteration:çelaʻ
Pronunciation:seh'-lah
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew term סֶלַע (çelaʻ, `{{H5553}}`) derives from an unused root signifying "to be lofty" or "elevated." This etymological root immediately points to its primary literal meaning: a prominent, often rugged and craggy rock, cliff, or stony outcrop. Unlike a mere stone (אֶבֶן, `{{H68}}`), a *selaʻ* is characterized by its significant size, height, and often its inaccessibility or formidable nature.
Semantically, *selaʻ* extends beyond the literal geological formation to encompass figurative meanings. Most notably, it signifies a "fortress" or "stronghold." This metaphorical extension arises directly from the physical properties of a craggy rock, which naturally provides defense, refuge, and security. Thus, *selaʻ* can denote a place of safety, a secure retreat, or a natural bastion against enemies. Its ruggedness also implies stability and permanence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term *selaʻ* appears frequently in the Hebrew Bible, serving both as a geographical descriptor and a powerful metaphor.
Geographically, *selaʻ* often refers to specific, formidable rock formations or places:
* It designates the "rock Etam" where Samson took refuge ([[Judges 15:8]]).
* Most famously, it is the name of the capital city of Edom, Sela (later Petra), renowned for its impregnable rock-cut dwellings ([[2 Kings 14:7]], [[Isaiah 16:1]], [[Obadiah 1:3]]). This usage underscores the word's inherent association with strength and natural defense.
* Moses strikes the *selaʻ* at Meribah to bring forth water for the Israelites in the wilderness, highlighting its role as a source of miraculous provision ([[Numbers 20:8]], [[Numbers 20:10]]).
Metaphorically, *selaʻ* frequently portrays God as a secure refuge and deliverer:
* In the Psalms, God is invoked as a "rock" or "fortress," a place of ultimate security and defense. For instance, [[Psalm 71:3]] declares, "Be my strong rock, a fortress of defense to save me." While God is more commonly referred to as a "rock" using the term צוּר (tsur, `{{H6697}}`), *selaʻ* also contributes to this imagery, emphasizing His unshakeable nature and protective power.
* The imagery of seeking refuge in a *selaʻ* also appears in times of distress or pursuit, as seen in [[Psalm 61:2]], "Lead me to the rock that is higher than I," signifying a place of elevated safety beyond human reach.
* The "clefts of the rock" (נִקְרַת הַסֶּלַע) are mentioned as a place of divine revelation or a hiding place, as when God places Moses in the cleft of the rock to protect him while His glory passes by ([[Exodus 33:22]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of *selaʻ* overlaps with several other Hebrew terms related to rocks, stones, and strongholds, enriching its meaning:
* **צוּר (tsur, `{{H6697}}`):** This is perhaps the closest synonym, also meaning "rock," "cliff," or "fortress." While *selaʻ* often emphasizes the rugged, craggy nature, *tsur* is more frequently used to describe God as the "Rock" of salvation and strength (e.g., [[Deuteronomy 32:4]], [[Psalm 18:2]]). The distinction is subtle, with *selaʻ* perhaps leaning more towards the physical, geographical feature that provides a stronghold, and *tsur* more readily employed for the abstract concept of God's steadfastness.
* **מְצוּדָה (metzudah, `{{H4686}}`):** Meaning "fortress," "stronghold," or "mountain-hold." This term often describes a fortified place, whether naturally occurring (like a *selaʻ*) or man-made, and frequently appears alongside *selaʻ* or *tsur* when describing God as a place of refuge.
* **אֶבֶן ('eben, `{{H68}}`):** A general term for "stone," which can refer to anything from a small pebble to a large building block. *Selaʻ* is a specific type of large, prominent rock formation, distinct from a common stone.
* **צֹר (tsor, `{{H6869}}`):** Refers to flint or a sharp stone, often used for implements. While also a stone, its specific properties differ from the general mass of a *selaʻ*.
* **Concepts:** The word *selaʻ* is intrinsically linked to concepts such as security, refuge, stability, strength, permanence, height, and inaccessibility. It evokes images of wilderness, divine protection, and sometimes, the formidable nature of obstacles.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of *selaʻ* is profound, primarily centering on the attributes of God and His relationship with humanity.
1. **God as Ultimate Refuge and Security:** The most prominent theological use of *selaʻ* is as a metaphor for God Himself. He is the unshakeable, impregnable "Rock" and "Fortress" to whom His people can flee for safety and protection. This imagery assures believers of God's steadfastness, His unwavering presence, and His ability to deliver from any threat. It speaks to His immutability and reliability in a world of flux.
2. **Divine Provision:** The narrative of Moses striking the *selaʻ* to bring forth water in the desert is a powerful symbol of God's miraculous provision for His people. This event is often interpreted typologically in the New Testament, with Paul identifying Christ as the spiritual "Rock" from whom living water flows ([[1 Corinthians 10:4]]). This highlights Christ as the ultimate source of spiritual sustenance and life.
3. **Strength and Deliverance:** The physical strength and defensive qualities of a *selaʻ* underscore God's power to deliver His people from their enemies and to establish them securely. It is a symbol of His might and His role as a divine warrior who protects His own.
4. **Hiding Place and Revelation:** The "clefts of the rock" serve as a motif for divine encounter and protection, suggesting that God's glory is too immense for direct human apprehension, yet He can reveal Himself in a sheltered, intimate way. It also symbolizes a place of safety for those who trust in Him.
### Summary
The Hebrew word סֶלַע (çelaʻ, `{{H5553}}`) fundamentally denotes a "craggy rock" or "cliff," stemming from a root meaning "to be lofty." This literal meaning extends powerfully to the figurative sense of a "fortress" or "stronghold," emphasizing the natural security and defense offered by such geological formations. In biblical contexts, *selaʻ* is used both as a geographical descriptor for formidable rocky places, such as the city of Sela, and as a potent metaphor for God. Theologically, it portrays God as the ultimate refuge, an unshakeable source of security, strength, and miraculous provision, as exemplified by the water from the rock. It signifies His protective nature, His reliability, and His ability to deliver His people, offering a profound image of divine steadfastness and care.
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