Consequently, Orpah kisses Naomi good-bye. Naomi’s powerful argument has convinced her that a normal life back in Moab is preferable to life with Naomi in Israel. She chooses the sensible track.65 But this only heightens Ruth’s reaction. She clings (dabaq) to Naomi. The order of the clauses expresses the simultaneity of Ruth’s and Orpah’s actions as a contrast between them.66 The expression “cling to” (dabaq + prep. b) implies here firm loyalty and deep affection.67 It implies leaving membership in one group to join another. In Genesis 2:24 this expression is used along with its opposite
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