Old Testament
Orpah
A Moabite woman who married Mahlon, son of Elimelech, and chose to return to her people after his death.
Orpah was a Moabite daughter-in-law to Naomi who initially set out for Bethlehem following the death of her husband. Unlike Ruth, who committed to Naomi and the God of Israel, Orpah chose to return to her home and gods in Moab. Her departure highlights the significance of Ruth's decision to remain, emphasizing the contrast between temporary familial ties and covenantal loyalty.
In the text
Where Orpah appears
2 verses · 1 chapterIn the same books
- Naomi20 versesAn Israelite woman whose return to Bethlehem with her daughter-in-law Ruth leads to the lineage of King David.
- Leah32 versesThe eldest daughter of Laban and first wife of Jacob, who became the mother of six of Israel's twelve tribes.
- Ruth13 versesA Moabite widow who demonstrated steadfast loyalty to her mother-in-law Naomi and faith in the God of Israel.
- Elimelech6 versesAn Ephrathite from Bethlehem who moved his family to Moab during a famine, setting the stage for Ruth's redemption.
- Mahlon4 versesThe elder son of Elimelech and Naomi who married Ruth the Moabitess before his premature death in Moab.
- Chilion3 versesThe son of Elimelech and Naomi who married Orpah before dying in Moab.
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