a bishop should not be condemned except with seventy-two…
““a bishop should not be condemned except with seventy-two witnesses… a cardinal priest should not be condemned except with forty-four witnesses, a cardinal deacon of the city of Rome without thirty-six witnesses, a subdeacon, acolyte, exorcist, lector, or doorkeeper except with seven witnesses.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Historical religious law required many witnesses to condemn clergy, emphasizing collective proof over individual accusation.
In simple terms: Many witnesses needed for condemnation.
Key Takeaway
Value collective verification.
Themes
law
religion
justice
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- legal reform
- academic study
- ethical debates
Key Concepts
evidence standards
due process
institutional authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How does collective proof affect fairness?
- Are there alternatives to witness‑based condemnation?
A Different Perspective
Modern contexts may view such numbers as impractical.