probability of a normal life in Moab over a risky venture in Naomi’s company. Stylistically, v. 14a forms a chiasm with the similar statement in v. 9. Note the reversal of word order, however: in v. 9, the farewell kiss led to weeping; in v. 14a, weeping led to the farewell kiss. The net effect is artistically to bracket the entire emotional episode (vv. 9–14). Note, further, that the subjects and objects of the actions reverse: in v. 9 Naomi kissed the women farewell; in v. 14a Orpah kissed Naomi