Ruth 1:14
And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her.
Ruth 1:14 (KJV)
Context
The Book of Ruth is set during the time of the judges in Israel. It tells the story of Naomi, her two daughters-in-law, Ruth and Orpah, and their journey from Moab to Bethlehem. In the preceding verses, Naomi expresses deep sorrow over the loss of her husband and two sons. She urges her daughters-in-law to return to their own homes, remarry, and start new lives. At first, both Orpah and Ruth weep and express their desire to stay with Naomi.
Meaning
In Ruth 1:14, the three women lift up their voices and weep again. This shared weeping shows the depth of their bond. Then Orpah kisses Naomi, a gesture of farewell, and departs. Ruth, however, “clave unto her.” The Hebrew word for “clave” is dabaq, meaning a strong, adhesive bond. It is the same word used in Genesis 2:24 to describe a man leaving his father and mother and being joined to his wife. That connection matters here: Ruth’s action is not merely sentimental. It is a deliberate, covenantal-like loyalty. She binds herself to Naomi’s fate, her people, and her God.
Biblical connections
The contrast between the two women is stark. Orpah’s kiss is a final, affectionate goodbye, while Ruth’s clinging is an enduring act of devotion. This verse sets the stage for Ruth’s declaration in Ruth 1:16-17, where she explicitly commits to Naomi’s people and God. Ruth’s choice is a model of hesed, a Hebrew word often translated as lovingkindness or steadfast love, which is a central attribute of God’s character. Her loyalty to Naomi, despite the bleak prospects of widowhood and poverty in a foreign land, prefigures the faithful commitment God shows to His people. It also highlights the theme of redemption, as Ruth’s choice places her in the lineage of King David and ultimately of Jesus Christ.
Application
Faithfulness: Ruth’s loyalty exemplifies faithfulness and selflessness. She demonstrates her commitment to Naomi even when it seems impractical and against her own interests.
Relationship with God: Ruth’s decision to leave her homeland and gods behind and embrace Naomi’s people and God reflects her genuine faith and openness to God’s leading.
Covenant Community: Ruth’s choice to stay with Naomi reflects the importance of covenant relationships within the community of believers.
Stepping Out in Faith: Ruth’s decision to leave her familiar surroundings and embrace a new culture and faith teaches us the value of stepping out in faith and embracing God’s leading, even when it seems uncertain or uncomfortable.
Redemption and Restoration: The story of Ruth is a beautiful illustration of God’s redemptive work. It reminds us that God can bring restoration and blessing even out of difficult circumstances.
Reflection
The emotional weight of this verse—the shared weeping and the parting—underscores the cost of true commitment. Ruth’s clinging challenges us to examine our own devotion. Is it a superficial affection that yields to circumstance, or a steadfast clinging to God and His people even when the path is difficult? Her faithfulness sets the stage for the remarkable story of God’s redemption and restoration in the Book of Ruth.
