The Canterbury Tales: General Prologue & Frame Story Spirituality Quotes Page 3

The Shipman, afraid that the Parson will make trouble for the other Pilgrims by berating their sinfulness, holds out their belief in the same God as reason not to do so. But as we know from the pilgrim's portraits, belief in the same God does not necessarily lead to equal levels of holiness.

Morality and virtuous material is the "whete" the Parson wishes to sow among the pilgrims. This language emphasizes the Parson's hope that his words will take root in the pilgrims' souls and grow into good works and increased faith.