A.T. Robertson Commentary Mark 9:15

"And straightway all the multitude, when they saw him, were greatly amazed, and running to him saluted him." — Mark 9:15 (ASV)

Were greatly amazed (εξεθαμβηθησαν). First aorist passive ingressive aorist with perfective compound εξ-. The sudden and opportune appearance of Jesus in the midst of the dispute when no one was looking for him turned all eyes to him. He would not fail, however the disciples might do so. The people were awed for the moment and then running began to welcome him (προτρεχοντες ησπαζοντο). Present participle and imperfect middle indicative.