A.T. Robertson Commentary Luke 23:49

"And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed with him from Galilee, stood afar off, seeing these things." — Luke 23:49 (ASV)

Stood afar off (ιστηκεισαν απο μακροθεν). Same verb as in verse 35. Melancholy picture of the inner circle of the acquaintances of Jesus and the faithful band of women from Galilee.

Seeing these things (ορωσα ταυτα). And helpless either to prevent them or to understand them. They could only stand and look with blinded eyes.