Meaning of the Selah family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Selah coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Selah name meaning and origin
Selah is a name of Hebrew origin, commonly associated with pause or reflection in biblical texts. It signifies a moment of contemplation or an interruption in thought, often used in Psalms, symbolizing a deeper understanding or appreciation of spirituality and life's complexities.
History of family crests like the Selah coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Selah name variations and their meaning
Emerging from the name Selah, several intriguing variations have developed across different cultures over the centuries. In the 19th century, an Anglicized version, Selahh, appeared primarily in the United States, reflecting the trend of adapting names for easier pronunciation in English. Meanwhile, in the Mediterranean region, particularly in Italy, the variant Selai gained popularity in the 17th century, influenced by local phonetic patterns. Moving further into Eastern Europe, the name evolved into Selaka during the 16th century, showcasing Slavic linguistic features. By the 20th century, a modern twist emerged with Salaya in some Latin American countries, where cultural blending began to alter the original pronunciation and spelling. Each variation tells a story of linguistic evolution influenced by geography, social dynamics, and the passage of time, enriching the name Selah and its descendants.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
