### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʻOrpâh**, represented by `{{H6204}}`, is the name of a **Moabites** who appears in the biblical narrative. The name appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses**, exclusively in the book of Ruth. Its definition is "feminine of עֹרֶף; mane; Orpah, a Moabites; Orpah." She is a figure whose decision to return to her homeland provides a crucial contrast to the protagonist, Ruth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6204}}` is introduced by **name** `{{H8034}}` as **one** `{{H259}}` of the **women** `{{H802}}` of **Moab** `{{H4125}}` who was taken as a **wife** `{{H802}}` by one of Naomi's sons. The family **dwelled** `{{H3427}}` in Moab for about **ten** `{{H6235}}` **years** `{{H8141}}` [[Ruth 1:4]]. The defining moment for **Orpah** occurs after a period of weeping, where she **kissed** `{{H5401}}` her **mother in law** `{{H2545}}` as a gesture of farewell. This action stands in direct opposition to Ruth, who **clave** `{{H1692}}` to Naomi [[Ruth 1:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller picture of Orpah's context and her pivotal choice:
* `{{H7327}}` **Rûwth** (friend; Ruth, a Moabitess; Ruth): This is the name of the other Moabitess daughter-in-law who makes the opposite choice of Orpah, deciding to **clave** `{{H1692}}` to her mother in law instead of leaving [[Ruth 1:14]].
* `{{H2545}}` **chămôwth** (a mother-in-law): This term defines the familial relationship at the heart of the decision. Orpah expresses her farewell by kissing her **mother in law** [[Ruth 1:14]].
* `{{H5401}}` **nâshaq** (to kiss): This is the specific action Orpah takes to signify her goodbye. While an act of affection, in this context it marks her separation from Naomi and her return to her people [[Ruth 1:14]].
* `{{H1692}}` **dâbaq** (to cleave): This powerful verb describes Ruth's profound act of loyalty and is used to directly contrast with Orpah's departure. The text states that "Ruth **clave** unto her" [[Ruth 1:14]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative significance of `{{H6204}}` is concentrated in a single, powerful moment of decision.
* **A Point of Decision:** Orpah's story highlights a crossroads of loyalty and cultural identity. After lifting up her **voice** `{{H6963}}` to **weep** `{{H1058}}`, she is faced with the choice to remain with Naomi or return to her homeland [[Ruth 1:14]].
* **An Act of Separation:** Her choice is sealed with a **kiss** `{{H5401}}`. This act, while demonstrating affection, serves as a gesture of final parting from her **mother in law** `{{H2545}}` [[Ruth 1:14]].
* **A Narrative Foil:** The primary role of **Orpah** is to serve as a contrast to **Ruth** `{{H7327}}`. Orpah's understandable decision to leave illuminates the extraordinary and counter-cultural nature of Ruth's choice to **cleave** `{{H1692}}` to Naomi [[Ruth 1:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6204}}` is more than just a name; it represents a character who embodies a path not taken. She appears briefly but pivotally, identified as a **wife** `{{H802}}` from **Moab** `{{H4125}}` who shared a life with an Israelite family for **ten** `{{H6235}}` **years** `{{H8141}}` [[Ruth 1:4]]. Her defining action—a farewell **kiss** `{{H5401}}`—encapsulates a moment of separation that underscores the gravity of the choice presented. Ultimately, Orpah’s story provides the necessary contrast that emphasizes the depth of loyalty and commitment embodied by Ruth, making her a crucial figure in the narrative.
TRV