paladin spell 5e

Strategic spell preparation is paramount for a paladin. With a relatively small list of known spells and even fewer prepared each day, choices must reflect both the anticipated challenges and the paladin’s specific oath. Oath spells, which are automatically prepared and do not count against the daily limit, heavily shape a paladin’s tactical identity. A Devotion paladin will always have access to Protection from Evil and Good, cementing their role as a defender against extraplanar threats, while a Conquest paladin gains Armor of Agathys, reflecting their intimidating, damage-reflecting nature. A savvy paladin balances preparing reliable, always-useful spells like Cure Wounds with situational spells that counter the day’s known adversary, such as Protection from Energy before facing a dragon.

Certain spells have become iconic to the paladin experience, fundamentally shaping how the class is played. Find Steed is a transformative 2nd-level spell that grants a intelligent, telepathically-linked mount, revolutionizing travel and battlefield mobility. Bless is arguably one of the most powerful and efficient concentration spells in the game, offering a scalable bonus that benefits multiple allies for an entire combat. High-level spells like Destructive Wave allow the paladin to unleash area-of-effect devastation, a clear expression of divine wrath. Perhaps most defining is the interaction between spell slots and the Divine Smite feature. While not a spell itself, the ability to expend a spell slot to deal radiant damage on a hit creates a constant, critical tactical decision: use a slot for a spell’s effect, or conserve it for a potential smite crit to obliterate a foe.

The paladin’s spellcasting also offers fascinating synergy with multiclassing, particularly with Charisma-based classes. A dip into Sorcerer or Warlock can significantly expand a paladin’s number of low-level spell slots, primarily used for fueling Divine Smites, while also granting access to useful cantrips like Booming Blade or defensive spells like Shield. A Bard multiclass adds versatility and support options. However, such combinations require careful consideration, as they delay access to the paladin’s potent higher-level features and aura improvements. The multiclass must serve the character’s narrative as an extension of their oath, not just a mechanical optimization, to maintain the thematic integrity of the paladin’s divine magic.

The paladin’s spell list in 5e is a masterfully crafted toolkit that perfectly complements the class’s hybrid nature. It provides the means to smite enemies, protect allies, and lead from the front, all while being deeply rooted in the character’s sacred vows. This magic feels earned and purposeful, a divine grant for unwavering conviction. From the moment they can cast Divine Favor to the point they can summon a Holy Weapon, a paladin’s spells are a testament to their role as a beacon of power, protection, and piety on the battlefield and beyond. Their strength lies not just in the spells they prepare, but in the oath that makes such magic possible.