S8 Ep664: 3. Drawing from the biblical narrative of the crucifixion, they interpret Pontius Pilate’s hand-washing as a recognition of Rome’s imperial limitations, a concept they argue Washington currently ignores. Unlike Rome’s historical success in assimilating

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John Batchelor

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🗓️ 30 March 2026

⏱️ 12 minutes

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Summary

3. Drawing from the biblical narrative of the crucifixion, they interpret Pontius Pilate’s hand-washing as a recognition of Rome’s imperial limitations, a concept they argue Washington currently ignores. Unlike Rome’s historical success in assimilating conquered peoples as equals, the U.S. has isolated itself by treating international partners with condescension and contempt. Consequently, international organizations like NATO remain absent from the conflict, leading to a predicted humiliating reckoning for the American court as energy costs continue to climb. (3)
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0:00.0	This is the Friends of History debating society.
0:08.4	I am Gaius.
0:09.2	Germanicus is here.
0:10.3	The centurions are not discouraged.
0:13.1	They're just pouring the third cup of wine.
0:15.2	So that's how they get through this evening of not very happy news from the American Empire, which is built upon the institutions of the Roman Empire.
0:24.4	And these centurions want to know their sacrifice and the sacrifice of their brethren comes to something.
0:30.1	It does indeed.
0:31.4	And there are lots of opportunities here going forward, and we'll discuss them in coming weeks.
0:37.0	We're going to see another Greek drama tonight.
0:39.8	I hope it's not the Persians again.
0:42.0	But we'll take it.
0:44.0	The reason I hesitate at the Persians is because you'll recall that play begins with
0:50.4	a messenger arriving to say we've been defeated.
0:52.7	It's not a great start for a theater piece,
0:56.2	although it is very Greek.
0:58.7	Let's you know right away.
0:59.7	No smiling in the room.
1:01.2	Okay.
1:02.3	One detail.
1:03.7	The book of Matthew has the crucifixion narrative.
1:09.9	And in there is Pontius Pilate's words. Panschus Pilate walks on
	...

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