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Book of Luke - Chapter 23 - Verse 49

23:49
And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things.

Meaning

When Jesus was crucified, many of his acquaintances and the women who had followed him from Galilee stood at a distance, watching everything unfold. This poignant moment in the Bible highlights the depth of their love and devotion to Jesus, as they remained steadfast in their support despite the danger and suffering he faced. The fact that they stood afar off symbolizes both their respect for the solemnity of the event and perhaps their own feelings of helplessness in the face of such a tragic situation. Their presence at the crucifixion serves as a powerful reminder of loyalty and faithfulness, even in the bleakest of circumstances. By including this detail in the Gospel account, it underscores the impact Jesus had on those who knew him and followed him closely during his ministry.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the phrase "all his acquaintance" refers to Jesus' friends and those who knew him personally. It is significant because even though many had deserted him, some of his acquaintances remained to witness his crucifixion. The women who followed him from Galilee were likely female disciples who were devoted to Jesus and played a crucial role in his ministry. The fact that they stood afar off indicates a sense of helplessness and sorrow as they watched Jesus being crucified. The theological interpretation of this verse could point to the theme of loyalty and faithfulness in the face of adversity. Despite the danger and despair of the situation, these individuals chose to remain present, bearing witness to the crucifixion of their beloved teacher and friend. This act of solidarity highlights the importance of standing by those we care about, even in the most difficult moments. Through word studies, we can delve deeper into the cultural and historical context of this verse to gain a clearer understanding of the emotions and dynamics at play during this pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry.

American Standard Version

And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed with him from Galilee, stood afar off, seeing these things.
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