In short: the five precepts are for every day. The eight precepts are a one-day retreat kept on observance days: the third precept becomes celibacy, and three are added (AN 8.41).
| 5 precepts | 8 precepts | |
|---|---|---|
| π No killing | β | β |
| β No stealing | β | β |
| β‘ Sexual conduct | No misconduct | Celibacy |
| β No lying | β | β |
| π No intoxicants | β | β |
| β No food after noon | β | |
| π΅ No entertainment, adornment | β | |
| π No high, luxurious beds | β |
Five precepts Β· Eight precepts Β· A one-day retreat at home
Questions people ask
What is the difference between the five and eight precepts?
The eight precepts add: no food after noon, no entertainment or adornment, and no high or luxurious beds; and the third precept becomes full celibacy. They are kept for a day and a night, usually on Uposatha days (AN 8.41).