Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition background
Acolyte
Acolyte is a background in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition: A life spent in service to a temple and the gods.
Last reviewed
Key facts
- Skill Proficiencies
- Insight, Religion
- Languages
- 2
- Feature
- Shelter of the Faithful
Overview
You have spent your life in the service of a temple to a specific god or pantheon of gods. You act as an intermediary between the realm of the holy and the mortal world, performing sacred rites and offering sacrifices to conduct worshipers into the presence of the divine. The Acolyte is the only background included in the SRD 5.1. It provides a strong foundation for divine casters (Clerics, Paladins) and any character with a religious or spiritual connection. The Shelter of the Faithful feature ensures you always have a support network.
How it works
Skill Proficiencies: Insight, Religion Languages: Two of your choice Equipment: A holy symbol, a prayer book or prayer wheel, 5 sticks of incense, vestments, a set of common clothes, and a pouch containing 15 gp. Feature - Shelter of the Faithful: As an acolyte, you command the respect of those who share your faith. You and your companions can receive free healing and care at a temple, shrine, or other established presence of your faith. Those who share your religion will support you (but only you) at a modest lifestyle. You also have ties to a specific temple dedicated to your chosen deity or pantheon.
Tips and playstyle
Best Classes: Cleric (thematic match + Insight/Religion), Paladin, Monk, Warlock (fallen acolyte), any class with a divine angle. Character Concepts: Temple priest, wandering monk, zealous missionary, questioning scholar, reformed cultist, divine oracle. Roleplaying Tips: Consider your relationship to your faith. Are you devout or questioning? Did you leave the temple willingly or were you cast out? Your connection to a religious institution can drive plots and provide useful contacts. Note on Backgrounds: The SRD only includes the Acolyte background. In a full D&D game, there are many more backgrounds (Criminal, Sage, Soldier, Noble, etc.). Ask your DM about additional options or work together to create a custom background following the rules in the Player's Handbook.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a different background?
The SRD only includes Acolyte, but the D&D rules allow custom backgrounds. With your DM's approval, choose any two skill proficiencies, two languages or tool proficiencies, a background feature, and personality characteristics. This lets you create virtually any background concept.
How does Shelter of the Faithful work in play?
You can find temples of your faith for free room and board, healing services, and a network of contacts. This is both a practical benefit (free healing between adventures) and a roleplay tool (your temple connections can provide information, introductions, and quest hooks).