Why is Rev Hale telling the accused to lie?

Rev. Hale urges the accused to lie in order to save their lives, believing that a false confession may be their only chance for survival in the oppressive atmosphere of the Salem witch trials. He realizes that the court is more interested in preserving its authority than in seeking the truth. By encouraging them to lie, Hale hopes to protect them from execution, despite the moral implications of dishonesty. Ultimately, this reflects his growing disillusionment with the justice system and the tragic consequences of the hysteria surrounding the trials.