勸發菩提心集 2.16

2.16

Question: Between the five precepts and the eight precepts, which is superior? Answer: Due to causes and conditions, both sets of precepts are equal. However, the five precepts are maintained for one's whole life, while the eight precepts are maintained for a single day. Furthermore, with the five precepts, the duration of constant observance is great while the precepts are few; with the one-day precepts, the time is short while the precepts are many. Moreover, if one lacks a great aspiration, even if one maintains the precepts for one's whole life, it does not compare to a person with a great aspiration keeping the precepts for a single day. For instance, if a weak man becomes a general, though he may lead an army for his whole life, his wisdom and courage are insufficient, and in the end he achieves no merit or fame. But if a hero exerts himself, disaster and turmoil are instantly quelled; the achievement of a single day surpasses the entire world.