What does john proctors allusion to pontius Pilate on imply about opinion of reverend hale?

By comparing Reverend Hale to Pontius Pilate, John Proctor implies that Hale, much like Pilate who condemned Jesus Christ knowing full well that Jesus was innocent, is acting in a self-serving and unjust manner. Proctor is essentially accusing Hale of deliberately or recklessly condemning innocent people as witches, even though Hale may subconsciously be aware of their innocence.

Proctor's allusion to Pontius Pilate is a powerful condemnation of Hale's character and actions. It suggests that Hale is not acting out of a genuine belief in the existence of witches, but rather out of a desire for power or status, or simply because it is easier to conform than to stand up for the truth.