ancient subsistence farmers’ lives, that was old. Naomi is well past childbearing age. The young women’s response to Naomi again involves weeping and a kiss. But while Ruth and Orpah had originally responded in unison, resisting Naomi’s appeal to leave, now they make their own individual choices. Orpah’s kiss is her farewell, signaling her acceptance of Naomi’s instructions. She will obey and go back. Orpah illustrates a choice that Ruth rejects. She ought not be seen as irresponsible or bad. The