Meaning: Isaac Barrow, a mathematician and theologian, expressed in this quote the essential role of testimonies and witnesses in the administration of justice between individuals. Barrow's quote highlights the importance of truth-seeking and the moral obligation of witnesses to reveal the truth in ambiguous and uncertain situations. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is important to dissect its components and delve into the broader context of justice and testimonies.

In his assertion that "justice should be administered between men," Barrow emphasizes the fundamental principle of fairness and equity in human interactions. The concept of justice is deeply rooted in the need for impartiality and adherence to truth, and Barrow's quote underscores the vital role of testimonies in achieving this objective. Testimonies, which serve as evidence of fact in legal proceedings, play a crucial role in ascertaining the truth and ensuring that justice is served.

Moreover, Barrow emphasizes the necessity for witnesses to feel a strong moral obligation to reveal the truth "according to their conscience" in cases that are "dark and doubtful." This highlights the ethical dimension of witness testimony, stressing the importance of integrity and honesty in the pursuit of justice. Barrow's emphasis on the conscientious revelation of truth underscores the ethical responsibility that witnesses bear in legal proceedings.

In the broader context of legal systems and the administration of justice, Barrow's quote resonates with the principles of fairness, truth-seeking, and the ethical conduct of witnesses. Testimonies form the bedrock of evidence in legal proceedings, and the veracity of witness testimony is essential in determining the outcome of a case. Barrow's assertion serves as a reminder of the profound impact that witness testimonies can have on the pursuit of justice and the resolution of disputes.

Beyond the realm of law and justice, Barrow's quote also carries moral and ethical implications for personal integrity and truth-telling. The notion that witnesses should "apprehend themselves greatly obliged to discover the truth" underscores the ethical imperative of honesty and transparency in all human interactions. This principle extends beyond formal legal proceedings and resonates with the broader values of integrity and truthfulness in society.

In conclusion, Isaac Barrow's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role of testimonies and witnesses in the administration of justice. It underscores the ethical responsibility of witnesses to reveal the truth in ambiguous and uncertain situations, and highlights the fundamental importance of truth-seeking in the pursuit of justice. Moreover, the quote carries broader implications for personal integrity and ethical conduct in all aspects of human interaction. By emphasizing the necessity for testimonies of fact and the moral obligation of witnesses to apprehend themselves greatly obliged to discover the truth, Barrow's quote encapsulates timeless principles that continue to resonate in the pursuit of justice and truth.