Skip to main content

Spiritual Weapon

Evocation
Level: 2nd-level
Casting Time: 1 bonus action
Range: 60 feet
Duration: 1 minute
Components: V, S

You create a floating, spectral weapon within range that lasts for the duration or until you cast this spell again. When you cast the spell, you can make a melee spell attack against a creature within 5 feet of the weapon. On a hit, the target takes force damage equal to 1d8 + your spellcasting ability modifier. As a bonus action on your turn, you can move the weapon up to 20 feet and repeat the attack against a creature within 5 feet of it. The weapon can take whatever form you choose. Clerics of deities who are associated with a particular weapon (as St. Cuthbert is known for his mace and Thor for his hammer) make this spell's effect resemble that weapon.

At Higher Levels: When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 3rd level or higher, the damage increases by 1d8 for every two slot levels above the 2nd.

Spell Details

School: Evocation
Level: 2
Ritual: No
Concentration: No
Classes: Cleric
A-Tier Excellent action economy via bonus action attacks with no concentration, enabling consistent damage output while maintaining casting flexibility.

Player Guide

Cast Spiritual Weapon as your bonus action to attack on turns you don't need bonus actions for other abilities, freeing your action for control spells or cantrips. Position the weapon 60 feet away to attack enemies outside melee range safely. The weapon persists for 10 turns without concentration, allowing you to attack enemies out of sight using the weapon's senses. Maintain optimal positioning by moving it 20 feet per bonus action, enabling hit-and-run tactics and coverage of multiple threats.

DM Tips

Clarify that the weapon uses the caster's spell attack modifier and cannot be targeted or harmed by enemies—it's purely magical and mobile. Remember the weapon can attack enemies the caster cannot see as long as the caster is aware of them, enabling tactical positioning around corners.