Inflict Wounds

Necromancy

Level: 1st-level

Casting Time: 1 action

Range: Touch

Duration: Instantaneous

Components: V, S

Make a melee spell attack against a creature you can reach. On a hit, the target takes 3d10 necrotic damage.

At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, the damage increases by 1d10 for each slot level above 1st.

Spell Details

School: Necromancy

Level: 1

Ritual: No

Concentration: No

Classes: Cleric

B-Tier Solid melee damage option for clerics, but requires proximity and spell attack roll, limiting use cases.

Player Guide

Use Inflict Wounds when you're already in melee range or can safely approach a vulnerable enemy. The spell's damage (3d10) scales well for a 1st-level slot, but the melee attack requirement means you need good AC or cover to avoid opportunity attacks. Pair it with spells that restrict enemy movement or grant you advantage on the attack roll for maximum effectiveness.

Spell Combos

hold-person Paralyzed targets grant advantage on your melee spell attack, nearly guaranteeing a hit for guaranteed damage.shield-of-faith Cast before engagement to boost AC and survive closing distance to melee range safely.spiritual-weapon Attack from range first, then use Inflict Wounds as a bonus action follow-up for burst damage.

DM Tips

Clarify that the caster must be within 5 feet to cast Inflict Wounds, so enemies can provoke opportunity attacks when moving into position. Consider whether melee-focused clerics get sufficient action economy compared to ranged damage dealers.

Related Spells

cure-wounds harm chill-touch