Find out how popular the first name Sela has been for the last 47 years (from 1977 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Sela by gender

Based on the last 47 years of data, Sela is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 25 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Sela.

The history of the first name Sela

The name Sela has its origins in the Hebrew language and culture, dating back to ancient times. It is derived from the Hebrew word "selah," which means "rock" or "boulder." The name is believed to have been associated with strength, resilience, and stability in the Jewish tradition.

One of the earliest references to the name Sela can be found in the Old Testament, specifically in the Book of Judges. It is mentioned as the name of a rock formation where the Israelites took refuge from the Philistines. This association with a physical rock or fortress may have contributed to the symbolic meaning of the name.

In the Middle Ages, the name Sela was occasionally given to Jewish children, particularly in regions where Hebrew names were commonly used. However, it remained relatively uncommon compared to other Hebrew names of the time.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the name Sela was Sela ibn Al-Fadl (c. 1008-1062), a renowned Jewish philosopher and scholar from Spain. He made significant contributions to the study of Arabic grammar and literature.

Another notable figure was Sela Merrill Peres (1862-1942), an American educator and activist who played a crucial role in establishing kindergartens and early childhood education programs in the United States.

In the 20th century, Sela Ward (born 1956) became a well-known American actress, known for her roles in popular television shows such as "Sisters" and "Once and Again." She received numerous Emmy and Golden Globe nominations throughout her career.

Sela Vave (born 1985) is a Samoan-American singer and songwriter who gained recognition for her powerful vocals and performances. She has released several successful albums and has collaborated with various artists in the music industry.

More recently, Sela Aaronso (born 1990) is a South African model and actress who has appeared in several international fashion campaigns and television shows. She has also been involved in various philanthropic initiatives focused on empowering women and children.

While the name Sela remains relatively uncommon in many parts of the world, it holds significant historical and cultural significance, particularly within the Jewish community, where it is associated with strength, resilience, and a connection to ancient traditions.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Sela was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Sela, please contact us.

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