“And they raised their voices and cried more” (Megillas Ruth 1:14).
The word “Vatisenah — and they raised” is written without the letter alef. Their energy was depleted because they were walking and crying. (Midrash Rabbah 2:21)
As Naomi prepared to return to Eretz Yisrael Ruth and Orpah walked along with her. As they walked they cried incessantly not wanting to separate. They sobbed so hard that they were drained of all their strength.
Naomi insisted that they return and Orpah gave up. With great anguish she kissed her mother-in-law goodbye and left. She returned to being Orpah the Moabite the daughter of her father.
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