Orpah Walked Ahead of Ruth Because of how Orpah's name is consistently placed ahead of Ruth, we have been sent a message that Orpah was a great woman and Orpah left us a great story. We understand that Ruth was significant, but the Holy Bible is letting us know that the greatness of Orpah should not be overlooked. Of course, we do not have the story of Orpah in the Bible like we have the story of Ruth. But, it is the writer's belief that we are to tell her story and this is the author's version of the story of the woman Orpah or as we may say the name today, Oprah's story. When the writer envisions the caravan headed by Naomi, the writer sees Naomi, walking first, Orpah second and Ruth walking behind Naomi and Orpah. So, read and enjoy the story of this fascinating strong, faithful and brave woman called Orpah.