Does Lay on Hands Provoke? A Paladin’s Primer
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The short answer is no, Lay on Hands typically does not provoke an attack of opportunity in Pathfinder. However, this answer necessitates further clarification, as the action’s specific mechanics and context can influence this determination. Lay on Hands, a staple ability of the Paladin class, allows them to heal or aid others with a touch. Understanding the nuances of this ability and its interaction with the combat system is crucial for any aspiring or seasoned Paladin player.
Understanding Lay on Hands Mechanics
Lay on Hands is usually executed as an action that requires a successful melee touch attack. This implies physical contact with the target. While some actions requiring touch attacks do provoke attacks of opportunity, Lay on Hands is explicitly designed to bypass this vulnerability. The key is that the ability description specifies that it “doesn’t provoke an attack of opportunity.” This is a vital distinction that allows Paladins to provide healing and support in the thick of combat without immediately becoming vulnerable.
When Might Lay on Hands Seem to Provoke?
It’s easy to confuse similar mechanics. For example, casting a Cure Light Wounds spell and then touching an ally to deliver it will provoke an attack of opportunity. This is because casting the spell itself is a separate action from the touch, and the casting action usually provokes. Lay on Hands, however, is a single, integrated action. It’s also essential to remember that moving into a threatened square to deliver Lay on Hands can still provoke if you’re not using a 5-foot step or other action that negates provoking. The act of touching itself does not provoke, but the movement might.
Related Considerations
The Paladin’s level, Charisma modifier, and specific feat choices can all influence the frequency and efficacy of Lay on Hands. Furthermore, while Lay on Hands is primarily a healing ability, it can also be used to harm undead creatures, making it a versatile tool in the Paladin’s arsenal.
Lay on Hands: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Lay on Hands and its mechanics:
1. How Much Does Lay on Hands Heal?
The amount Lay on Hands heals depends on the Paladin’s level. You have a pool of healing power that replenishes when you take a long rest. With that pool, you can restore a total number of hit points equal to your paladin level × 5.
2. How Often Can I Use Lay on Hands?
The number of times a Paladin can use Lay on Hands depends on the ruleset being used. In some editions it may be a number of times per day equal to one half the character’s paladin level plus their Charisma modifier, in others, it is dependent on Wisdom. Refer to your system’s description of the Paladin’s Lay on Hands ability for exact details.
3. Can Lay on Hands Be Used on Self?
Yes, a Paladin can use Lay on Hands on themselves, on others, or even on both themselves and others in the same round, expending actions and uses for both. It’s a valuable self-preservation tool as well as a means of supporting allies.
4. Does Lay on Hands Work on Undead?
Yes, but instead of healing, Lay on Hands damages undead creatures. Undead do not typically receive a saving throw against this damage. It’s a powerful way for a Paladin to combat these unholy beings.
5. Does Lay on Hands Require a Free Hand?
Typically, yes, Lay on Hands requires the use of a hand to deliver the touch. However, you can do so while holding something as long as part of your hand is able to touch the target (even if it’s through a glove or gauntlet).
6. Does Lay on Hands Remove Curses or Other Ailments?
In some editions, the paladin’s lay on hands ability can also act as remove curse, using the paladin’s level as the caster level. Additionally, Lay on Hands can sometimes be used to alleviate conditions like exhaustion. Specific effects depend on the edition and any relevant class features.
7. What is Forbearance in the Context of Lay on Hands?
The mention of “Forbearance” in relation to Lay on Hands in some online discussions appears to be a misunderstanding or perhaps refers to a specific house rule or interpretation. Forbearance generally refers to leniency or delayed repayment, particularly in financial contexts. It does not have a direct, commonly recognized connection to the Lay on Hands ability in Pathfinder or other similar RPG systems. The reference to “live twice” seems to be a metaphorical one, suggesting that the healing provided by Lay on Hands can prevent death.
8. Does Picking Up an Item Provoke in Pathfinder?
When picking up or manipulating objects, you generally provoke an attack of opportunity, but only against foes that can reach your space. However, you do not provoke attacks of opportunity from foes that cannot reach you, no matter what action you are taking, even if it includes reaching into a threatened space.
9. Does Charging Provoke an Attack of Opportunity in Pathfinder?
Charging itself does not provoke an AoO. However, the movement from the charge will provoke normally. While the Charge action itself doesn’t provoke, the movement required to execute the charge can.
10. What is Divine Sense?
Divine Sense is another Paladin ability. As an action, you can detect good and evil. Until the end of your next turn, you can sense anything affected by the hallow spell or know the location of any celestial, fiend, undead within 60 ft. that is not behind total cover.
11. Can You Skip Mortgage Payments?
In real life, skipping mortgage payments can have serious consequences. While forbearance options exist, they don’t erase the debt. It’s essential to understand the terms and conditions of any forbearance agreement. This is unrelated to Pathfinder but included due to its presence in the original article.
12. How Many Times Can You Defer a Mortgage Payment?
The number of times you can defer a mortgage payment depends on the specific lender and any government programs in place. This is not related to the game.
13. What is the Paladin’s Alignment Requirement?
Paladins are usually required to be Lawful Good. This alignment dictates their behavior and their access to certain abilities. Violating their alignment can lead to a loss of Paladin powers.
14. What Happens If a Paladin Breaks Their Oath?
If a Paladin breaks their oath or violates their alignment, they may lose their Paladin powers. In some cases, they may be forced to become an Antipaladin or another class entirely.
15. Where Can I Learn More About Game Mechanics and Design?
For further exploration into the intricacies of game design, learning, and the impact of games on society, consider exploring the resources available at the Games Learning Society website. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to discover research, discussions, and a community dedicated to the power of games in education and beyond.