Is Divine Smite a Spell?
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Divine Smite is not a spell, but rather a class feature that Paladins can use to deal radiant damage to their enemies, and it does not require a bonus action to use, unlike some smite spells. The confusion arises because Divine Smite uses spell slots, but mechanically, it is distinct from spells listed in the PHB pages 207-211, which outlines the spell list for all classes.
Understanding Divine Smite
To grasp the nature of Divine Smite, it’s essential to differentiate it from spells and other abilities. Divine Smite is a unique ability that allows Paladins to channel divine energy into their melee attacks, dealing extra radiant damage without casting a spell.
FAQs About Divine Smite
1. Is Divine Smite a Spell Attack?
Divine Smite is not considered a spell attack because it doesn’t involve casting a spell. Instead, it’s a class feature that adds radiant damage to a melee weapon attack.
2. Can You Use Divine Smite and a Spell on the Same Turn?
Yes, a Paladin can cast a spell during the same turn they use Divine Smite, as these are considered separate actions.
3. Is Holy Smite a Spell?
Holy Smite is indeed a spell, specifically a 3rd-level priest spell that clerics and paladins of good and neutral alignment can use.
4. Can You Use a Smite Spell and Divine Smite?
Divine Smite can be combined with Wrathful Smite or Thunderous Smite, but there are restrictions on using these smite spells together due to their concentration requirements.
5. Does Divine Smite Count as Magic?
While Divine Smite isn’t a spell, it is magical in nature, and thus, an antimagic field would prevent its use.
6. Can Divine Smite Use Any Spell Slot?
Divine Smite can use any spell slot, regardless of its source, giving Paladins flexibility in when they choose to use this ability.
7. Does Divine Smite Have to Use Paladin Spell Slots?
No, Divine Smite can be fueled by any spell slot, not just those from the Paladin class.
8. What is the Highest Spell Slot in Divine Smite?
The maximum damage from Divine Smite is capped at 5d8 (using a 4th-level or higher spell slot), with an additional 1d8 against undead or fiends.
9. Does Eldritch Smite Use a Spell Slot?
Eldritch Smite requires a warlock spell slot, distinguishing it from Divine Smite in its spell slot usage.
10. When Should I Use Divine Smite?
Divine Smite can be used whenever you successfully hit a creature with a melee weapon attack, making it a versatile tool in combat.
11. Can I Use Divine Smite Twice?
Yes, Divine Smite can be used multiple times per turn, provided you have the spell slots available and hit your target each time.
12. Can You Use Divine Smite on Fists?
Divine Smite is intended for use with melee weapon attacks, not unarmed strikes, although there might be some ambiguity with natural weapons.
13. What Are the Rules for Divine Smite?
The basic rule for Divine Smite is that it allows a Paladin to expend a spell slot to deal extra radiant damage when hitting with a melee weapon attack.
14. Does a Critical Hit Apply to Divine Smite?
On a critical hit, the damage from Divine Smite is capped, typically at 10d8 for a 4th-level or higher spell slot, or 12d8 against undead or fiends.
15. Is Divine Smite Affected by Antimagic?
Yes, Divine Smite would be affected by an antimagic field because, despite not being a spell, it is a magical effect.