Spiritual Weapon
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.
At a Glance
Level
2nd
School
Evocation
Casting Time
1 bonus action
Range
60 feet
Duration
1 minute
Concentration
No
How Spiritual Weapon Works
| Casting Time | 1 bonus action |
|---|---|
| Range | 60 feet |
| Components | V, S |
| Duration | 1 minute |
Available to:
Cleric
Damage
1d8 + spellcasting modifier force
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 2nd.
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Forgetting it doesn't require concentration - you can use it with other concentration spells
Common Mistake
Not realizing you can attack when you first cast it as part of the casting
Common Mistake
Thinking it takes your action to attack with it - after initial cast, it only uses bonus action
DM Tips
DM Tip
Excellent bonus action economy spell that adds consistent damage throughout combat
DM Tip
The weapon's appearance can be any form - encourage creative descriptions
Sources & Further Reading
- Spiritual Weapon — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD text
- Spiritual Weapon — Roll20 Compendium — Structured reference
- Spiritual Weapon — D&D Beyond — Official digital reference