Ruth 1:14

KJV

And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they lifted up {H5375} their voice {H6963}, and wept again {H1058}: and Orpah {H6204} kissed {H5401} her mother in law {H2545}; but Ruth {H7327} clave {H1692} unto her.

Complete Jewish Bible

Again they wept aloud. Then 'Orpah kissed her mother-in-law goodbye. But Rut stuck with her.

Berean Standard Bible

Again they wept aloud, and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law goodbye, but Ruth clung to her.

American Standard Version

And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother-in-law, but Ruth clave unto her.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ruth 1:14 presents a deeply emotional and pivotal moment, sharply contrasting the divergent decisions of Naomi's two Moabite daughters-in-law. After Naomi's earnest and heart-wrenching plea for them to return to their own people, Orpah, though overcome with grief, makes the practical decision to depart, embracing the familiar path of her past. In profound and beautiful contrast, Ruth, despite the shared sorrow and the daunting uncertainty of the future, demonstrates an extraordinary and unwavering commitment, choosing to remain steadfastly loyal to her mother-in-law, an act of radical faithfulness that irrevocably sets the stage for God's redemptive plan to unfold.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the climactic turning point in the initial narrative arc of the Book of Ruth, immediately following Naomi's persistent attempts to dissuade her daughters-in-law from accompanying her back to Judah. The preceding verses establish the tragic backdrop: Naomi, having lost her husband Elimelech and two sons Mahlon and Chilion (who had married Orpah and Ruth) during a decade-long sojourn in Moab, decides to return to her homeland ([Ruth 1:1-5](/ruth/1-5 "Ruth 1:1-5 - Naomi's Loss and Return")). Convinced that the Lord's hand has dealt bitterly with her, she urges Orpah and Ruth to return to their mothers' homes, even praying for God's provision of new husbands and security for them ([Ruth 1:8-9](/ruth/1-8 "Ruth 1:8-9 - Naomi's Blessing for Her Daughters-in-Law")). While both initially express a desire to stay with Naomi ([Ruth 1:10](/ruth/1-10 "Ruth 1:10 - Daughters-in-Law's Initial Refusal")), Naomi's subsequent, more forceful argument—highlighting her inability to provide future husbands and the profound bitterness of her own lot—forces their ultimate decision, leading directly to the emotional parting described in [Ruth 1:14](/ruth/1-14 "Ruth 1:14 - Orpah Returns, Ruth Stays") ([Ruth 1:11-13](/ruth/1-11-13 "Ruth 1:11-13 - Naomi's Further Plea and Daughters-in-Law's Response")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The events of the Book of Ruth are explicitly set "in the days when the judges ruled" ([Ruth 1:1](/ruth/1-1 "Ruth 1:1 - Setting in the Time of Judges")), a period in Israelite history marked by significant moral and spiritual decline, where "every man did that which was right in his own eyes" ([Judges 21:25](/judges/21-25 "Judges 21:25 - A Time of Anarchy")). Famine, which prompted Elimelech's family to leave Bethlehem for Moab, was a recurrent hardship, often interpreted as a sign of divine displeasure. Culturally, the plight of a childless widow was particularly dire; without male heirs, she lacked social standing, economic security, and protection. The custom of levirate marriage, where a brother-in-law was obligated to marry his deceased brother's widow to raise up an heir ([Deuteronomy 25:5-10](/deuteronomy/25-5-10 "Deuteronomy 25:5-10 - Levirate Marriage Law")), underscores the importance of male lineage and continuity. For Moabite women like Orpah and Ruth, returning to their own families and ancestral gods was not only culturally expected but also the most logical and secure path to remarriage and social integration. Ruth's choice to remain with Naomi, a foreign widow, and potentially embrace a foreign God, was thus a radical departure from cultural norms and economically precarious.
* **Key Themes:** [Ruth 1:14](/ruth/1-14 "Ruth 1:14 - Orpah Returns, Ruth Stays") powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes central to the Book of Ruth. Firstly, it highlights the **weight of choice** and its profound, often unforeseen, consequences, starkly contrasting Orpah's pragmatic return to her cultural roots with Ruth's radical, faith-driven commitment. Secondly, it introduces the central theme of **unwavering loyalty and steadfast love (Hebrew: *hesed*)**, epitomized by Ruth's act of "cleaving" to Naomi. This *hesed* transcends mere affection, signifying a deep, covenantal bond of devotion that becomes the foundational virtue for the unfolding narrative of God's providence. Thirdly, the verse underscores **sorrow and hope**: the repeated weeping emphasizes the deep grief shared by the women, yet Ruth's resolute choice injects a glimmer of hope into Naomi's seemingly hopeless situation, foreshadowing the divine intervention that will transform their lives. Finally, it subtly but significantly introduces the theme of **divine providence**, illustrating how God works through the faithful, even unconventional, choices of individuals to accomplish His greater purposes, ultimately leading to the lineage of King David and the Messiah, as later highlighted in [Matthew 1:5](/matthew/1-5 "Matthew 1:5 - Ruth in Jesus' Genealogy").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wept (Hebrew, _bâkâh'_):** a primitive root; to weep; generally to bemoan; [idiom] at all, bewail, complain, make lamentation, [idiom] more, mourn, [idiom] sore, [idiom] with tears, weep. This verb signifies a deep, emotional outpouring of grief, often accompanied by wailing or lamentation. The KJV's "wept again" emphasizes the renewed intensity of their sorrow, indicating that the initial weeping had subsided, only to return with greater force as the finality of their parting became clear. It underscores the profound emotional bond between the three women and the genuine pain of separation.
* **Kissed (Hebrew, _nâshaq'_):** a primitive root (identical with נָשַׂק, through the idea of fastening up; compare חָזַק, חָשַׁק); to kiss, literally or figuratively (touch); also (as a mode of attachment), to equip with weapons; armed (men), rule, kiss, that touched. While a gesture of affection, in this context, "kissed" serves as a specific act of farewell. It marks the termination of Orpah's direct obligation and connection to Naomi and the Israelite family. It is a tender, yet decisive, act of separation, signifying her return to her own people and her past life.
* **Clave (Hebrew, _dâbaq'_):** a primitive root; properly, to impinge, i.e. cling or adhere; figuratively, to catch by pursuit; abide fast, cleave (fast together), follow close (hard after), be joined (together), keep (fast), overtake, pursue hard, stick, take. This is the pivotal word of the verse, denoting a strong, adhesive bond, to cling, stick, hold fast, or be joined. It implies a deep, resolute, and enduring attachment that is not easily broken. It is the same word used in [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - Cleaving in Marriage") to describe a man "cleaving" to his wife, indicating a covenantal, unbreakable bond of commitment and loyalty. Ruth's "cleaving" to Naomi transcends mere familial obligation, suggesting a profound spiritual and relational devotion that defines her character and sets the course for the entire narrative.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they lifted up their voice, and wept again:"** This opening clause immediately establishes the high emotional intensity of the scene. The shared act of "lifting up their voice" indicates a collective, unrestrained expression of profound sorrow and lamentation. The repetition of "wept again" emphasizes that this is not a fleeting moment of sadness but a renewed, overwhelming wave of grief, highlighting the deep affection and bonds shared by all three women and the genuine pain of the impending separation. It underscores the gravity of Naomi's situation and the difficult choice facing her daughters-in-law.
* **"and Orpah kissed her mother in law;"** This clause describes Orpah's decisive action, marking her departure from the narrative. Her kiss, while an act of affection and respect, simultaneously functions as a gesture of final farewell and acceptance of Naomi's counsel. It signifies her choice to return to her own people, her family, and the security of her Moabite heritage and gods. This act, while understandable from a practical and cultural standpoint, marks her exit from the unfolding divine plan that will center on Ruth.
* **"but Ruth clave unto her."** This concluding clause stands in stark and powerful contrast to Orpah's action, serving as the theological and narrative heart of the verse. The conjunction "but" highlights the profound divergence in their choices. Ruth's act of "cleaving" (Hebrew: *dabaq*) signifies an unwavering, resolute, and profound commitment to Naomi, transcending cultural norms, personal comfort, and the allure of security. It implies a deep loyalty, a willingness to share Naomi's uncertain future, and implicitly, an embrace of Naomi's God. This choice is the pivotal turning point, demonstrating Ruth's extraordinary character and setting the stage for all subsequent events in the book, ultimately leading to the lineage of King David and the Messiah.

#### Literary Devices
The verse masterfully employs **Contrast** as its primary literary device, setting Orpah's pragmatic, albeit sorrowful, decision to return against Ruth's radical, unwavering commitment. This immediate juxtaposition highlights the unique and profound nature of Ruth's choice, making her faithfulness stand out vividly. The **Repetition** of "wept again" emphasizes the emotional weight and shared grief, drawing the reader deeply into the pathos of the moment and underscoring the sincerity of their sorrow. Furthermore, the distinct actions of "kissed" and "clave" function as powerful **Symbolism**. The kiss symbolizes a tender but definite farewell and separation, marking the end of one path, while "cleaving" symbolizes an unbreakable bond of loyalty, devotion, and covenantal commitment, marking the beginning of another. This symbolic contrast is crucial for understanding the differing paths taken by the two women and the moral and spiritual weight of Ruth's decision. The verse also serves as a strong point of **Foreshadowing**, as Ruth's unwavering loyalty here anticipates her famous declaration of commitment in [Ruth 1:16-17](/ruth/1-16-17 "Ruth 1:16-17 - Ruth's Vow of Loyalty") and sets the stage for God's providential care to unfold through her faithfulness.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Ruth 1:14 is a profound theological statement on the nature of true commitment and the often-unseen hand of God working through human choices. Ruth's act of "cleaving" (Hebrew: *dabaq*) is a powerful demonstration of *hesed*, a loyal, steadfast love that goes beyond mere affection to encompass covenantal faithfulness and self-sacrificial devotion. This *hesed* is not merely an emotional bond but a resolute decision to align one's destiny with another, even when it means embracing hardship, uncertainty, and a foreign land. The contrast with Orpah underscores that while pragmatic choices are understandable, it is often in radical acts of faithfulness—acts that defy conventional wisdom—that God's purposes are most clearly revealed and advanced. Ruth's choice, seemingly small and personal, becomes the hinge upon which the entire narrative of redemption and restoration turns, demonstrating how divine providence can operate through the humble and loyal actions of individuals, ultimately shaping the lineage of the Messiah.

* [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Cleaving in Marriage")
* [Proverbs 17:17](/proverbs/17-17 "A Friend Loves at All Times")
* [John 15:13](/john/15-13 "Greater Love Has No One Than This")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ruth 1:14 invites us to deeply examine the quality of our own commitments and the nature of our loyalty, not only to others but, more profoundly, to God. In a world that often prioritizes convenience, self-interest, and fleeting relationships, Ruth's decision to "clave unto" Naomi stands as a powerful testament to the enduring value of steadfast love and unwavering devotion. Her choice was not born of ease or certainty, but from a profound connection and, implicitly, a nascent faith that would lead her to embrace Naomi's God and her people. This challenges us to consider where our loyalties truly lie when faced with difficult choices, and whether we are willing to embrace uncertainty, discomfort, or even personal cost for the sake of a deeper, more profound commitment to God and His people. Ruth's story reminds us that acts of faithfulness, even those seemingly small or personal, can have far-reaching, even historical and redemptive, consequences within God's sovereign plan. Her example calls us to cultivate a *hesed*-filled love that is resilient, sacrificial, and unwavering, trusting that God can use our faithfulness to bring about His purposes in ways we cannot foresee.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does Ruth's "cleaving" reveal about the nature of true loyalty and commitment in relationships, especially when faced with adversity?**
* **How does Ruth's choice challenge our modern tendencies toward self-preservation, convenience, and prioritizing personal comfort over enduring commitment?**
* **Can you identify a time in your life when you were called to "clave" to someone or something (a person, a principle, or God's calling), despite significant personal cost or uncertainty?**
* **How might Ruth's decision, seemingly driven by human love and familial loyalty, also reflect a nascent and growing faith in the God of Israel?**
* **What "bitter" circumstances or difficult choices in our lives might God be using to reveal opportunities for radical faithfulness, much as He did for Naomi and Ruth?**

### FAQ
**Why did Orpah return to Moab, and is her choice condemned?**

Answer: Orpah returned to Moab because Naomi earnestly urged her and Ruth to do so, emphasizing that she had no more sons to provide them with husbands and that her own situation was one of deep bitterness and hardship. From a practical and cultural standpoint, Orpah's decision was entirely reasonable. She was returning to her own people, her family, and the potential for a secure future, including remarriage, within her familiar cultural context and religious traditions. The text does not condemn Orpah's choice; rather, it presents it as a contrast to highlight the extraordinary and counter-cultural nature of Ruth's commitment. Orpah made a logical and understandable decision for her own well-being, while Ruth made a choice rooted in a deeper, unwavering loyalty that would ultimately serve God's redemptive purposes.

**What is the significance of the word "clave" in Ruth 1:14?**

Answer: The word "clave" is a translation of the Hebrew verb *dabaq* (דָּבַק), which is highly significant. It means to cling, stick, hold fast, or be joined. It implies a strong, adhesive, and enduring bond that is not easily broken. This is the same word used in [Genesis 2:24](/genesis/2-24 "Genesis 2:24 - Cleaving in Marriage") to describe a man "cleaving" to his wife, indicating a deep, covenantal, and lifelong commitment. In [Ruth 1:14](/ruth/1-14 "Ruth 1:14 - Orpah Returns, Ruth Stays"), it signifies that Ruth's attachment to Naomi was not merely affectionate but a profound, resolute, and unwavering loyalty that transcended familial obligation, cultural expectations, and personal comfort. It speaks to a deep spiritual and relational devotion that defines Ruth's character and sets the course for the entire narrative of the Book of Ruth, foreshadowing her embrace of Naomi's God and people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ruth's unwavering commitment in [Ruth 1:14](/ruth/1-14 "Ruth 1:14 - Orpah Returns, Ruth Stays") serves as a beautiful and profound foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate and unyielding loyalty to His people. Just as Ruth "clave" to Naomi, forsaking her own people, land, and the security of her past for an uncertain future with her mother-in-law and her God, so Christ, the ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer, "clave" to humanity. He left the unimaginable glory of heaven to fully identify with us, entering our broken world and taking on our flesh, emptying Himself for our sake ([Philippians 2:6-8](/philippians/2-6-8 "Philippians 2:6-8 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")). His steadfast love, or *hesed*, is perfectly embodied in His sacrificial work on the cross, where He demonstrated the greatest love by laying down His life for His friends, even for His enemies ([John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love Has No One Than This"); [Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God's Love While We Were Sinners")). Ruth's inclusion in the lineage of King David and, ultimately, Jesus Christ ([Matthew 1:5](/matthew/1-5 "Matthew 1:5 - Ruth in Jesus' Genealogy")) highlights how God's sovereign plan of redemption unfolds through seemingly ordinary acts of faithfulness and radical devotion. Her radical loyalty to Naomi, a foreign widow, mirrors Christ's radical identification with and redemption of all who believe, regardless of their background, bringing them into His covenant family and offering them true rest and security in Him ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28-30 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). Ruth's story, beginning with her unwavering choice to "clave," ultimately points to the greater story of God's unwavering faithfulness to humanity through His Son, Jesus Christ, who perfectly exemplifies *hesed* and invites us to "cleave" to Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 18:24

¶ A man [that hath] friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend [that] sticketh closer than a brother.

Matthew 10:37

He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

Matthew 16:24

¶ Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

Matthew 19:22

But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.

Hebrews 10:39

But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

John 6:66

From that [time] many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

John 6:69

And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.