Definition and Meaning:
The term "Higgaion" appears in the Hebrew Bible and is often associated with meditation, reflection, or a musical notation. The word is derived from the Hebrew root "haga," which means to murmur, meditate, or ponder. In the context of the Psalms, it is generally understood to indicate a pause for contemplation or a musical interlude.

Biblical References:
Higgaion is mentioned in a few key passages in the Old Testament, primarily within the Psalms. The Berean Standard Bible provides the following instances:

1. Psalm 9:16 : "The LORD is known by the justice He brings; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands. Higgaion. Selah."
In this verse, "Higgaion" is coupled with "Selah," suggesting a moment for the reader or listener to pause and reflect on the justice of God and the fate of the wicked. The use of "Higgaion" here emphasizes the importance of meditating on the divine justice and the moral order established by God.

2. Psalm 19:14 : While the term "Higgaion" is not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the concept of meditation is present: "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer."
This verse captures the essence of what "Higgaion" represents—deep, thoughtful reflection on God's word and His attributes, seeking to align one's heart and mind with His will.

3. Psalm 92:3 : "With the ten-stringed harp and the melody of the lyre."
Although "Higgaion" is not directly mentioned, the context of musical worship in the Psalms often includes instructions for musical interludes or meditative pauses, which "Higgaion" may imply.

Interpretation and Usage:
In the Psalms, "Higgaion" serves as a directive for the reader or worshipper to engage in thoughtful meditation. It is a call to pause and consider the weight and significance of the preceding words or themes. This reflective practice is integral to the spiritual life, encouraging believers to internalize and respond to God's truth.

Theological Significance:
From a theological perspective, "Higgaion" underscores the importance of meditation in the life of faith. It invites believers to not only read or hear the Scriptures but to deeply ponder their meaning and implications. This practice aligns with the biblical exhortation to meditate on God's law day and night (Joshua 1:8, Psalm 1:2). Through meditation, believers cultivate a deeper understanding of God's character and His purposes, fostering spiritual growth and maturity.

Cultural and Historical Context:
In ancient Israelite worship, music played a vital role, and terms like "Higgaion" likely served as musical or liturgical instructions. The Psalms, being both poetic and musical compositions, often included such notations to guide the performance and enhance the worship experience. The use of "Higgaion" reflects the rich tradition of integrating music, meditation, and worship in the spiritual life of the community.

Conclusion:
While "Higgaion" is a term that appears infrequently in the Scriptures, its presence highlights the value of meditation and reflection in the worship and spiritual practice of believers. It serves as a reminder of the need to pause and consider the profound truths of God's word, allowing them to transform the heart and mind.Higgaion

meditation; consideration

Higgaion

(meditation), a word which occurs three times in the book of Psalms -- (Psalms 9:16; 19:14; 92:3) (margin). The word has two meanings, one of a general character, implying thought; reflection , and another, in (Psalms 9:16) and Psal 92:3 Of a technical nature, the precise meaning of which cannot at this distance of time be determined. (Canon Cook says that it probably means an interlude giving musical expression to the feelings suggested by the preceding words.--ED.)

Higgaion

In Psalm 9:16, is supposed to indicate a pause in the singing of the Psalm, for meditation, probably with an instrumental interlude.

In Psalm 92:3 means the murmuring tone of the harp. In Psalm 9:16 it is a musical sign, denoting probably a pause in the instrumental interlude. In Psalm 19:14 the word is rendered "meditation;" and in Lamentations 3:62, "device" (R.V., "imagination"). HIGGAION

hi-ga'yon, hi-gi'-on (higgayon): The meaning of this word is uncertain. Two interpretations are possible; the one based on an allied Arabic root gives "a deep vibrating sound," the other derived from the Greek versions of Psalm 9:16, where we read higgayon Celah, takes it to mean an instrumental interlude.

See PSALMS.

1902. higgayon -- resounding music, meditation, musing
... 1901, 1902. higgayon. 1903 . resounding music, meditation, musing. Transliteration:
higgayon Phonetic Spelling: (hig-gaw-yone') Short Definition: Higgaion. ...
/hebrew/1902.htm - 6kHiggaion (2 Occurrences)
... Standard Bible Encyclopedia. HIGGAION. hi-ga'yon, hi-gi'-on (higgayon): The meaning
of this word is uncertain. ... Multi-Version Concordance Higgaion (2 Occurrences) ...
/h/higgaion.htm - 7k

Executeth (11 Occurrences)
... Psalms 9:16 The LORD is known by the judgment which he executeth: the wicked is
snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah. (KJV WBS). ...
/e/executeth.htm - 9k

Ensnared (10 Occurrences)
... (KJV DBY WBS). Psalms 9:16 Jehovah is known by the judgment he hath executed: the
wicked is ensnared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah. (DBY NIV). ...
/e/ensnared.htm - 9k

Evil-doer (88 Occurrences)
... Psalms 9:16 The Lord has given knowledge of himself through his judging: the
evil-doer is taken in the net which his hands had made. (Higgaion. Selah.) (BBE). ...
/e/evil-doer.htm - 30k

Net (91 Occurrences)
... Psalms 9:16 The Lord has given knowledge of himself through his judging: the
evil-doer is taken in the net which his hands had made. (Higgaion. Selah.) (BBE). ...
/n/net.htm - 36k

Hiermas

/h/hiermas.htm - 6k

Judging (141 Occurrences)
... Psalms 9:16 The Lord has given knowledge of himself through his judging: the
evil-doer is taken in the net which his hands had made. (Higgaion. Selah.) (BBE). ...
/j/judging.htm - 39k

High (4559 Occurrences)

/h/high.htm - 60k

To what do the various musical terms in the book of Psalms refer? | GotQuestions.org

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus