"What is truth? said jesting Pilate; and would not stay for an answer"

This quote by Francis Bacon is a referral to the scriptural story of Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor of Judea who presided over the trial of Jesus. Pilate asked Jesus, "What is fact?" when Jesus declared to be the fact. Pilate's concern was rhetorical, as he did not expect a response. The quote implies that Pilate was mocking Jesus and did not take his claims seriously. It also recommends that Pilate was not thinking about the truth and was more worried about preserving his own power. The quote can be interpreted as a caution against those who are not happy to seek the reality and instead rely on their own power and authority. It is a pointer that truth is important and must not be ignored or ignored. Ultimately, the quote works as a tip that truth is essential and should be sought out and respected.