Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition class
Cleric
Cleric is a class in Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition: Divine spellcasters who channel the power of the gods.
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Key facts
- Hit Die
- d8
- Primary Ability
- WIS
- Saving Throws
- WIS, CHA
Overview
Clerics are intermediaries between the mortal world and the distant planes of the gods. They combine the healing power of divine magic with martial capability that varies by domain. A cleric's deity strongly influences their abilities, granting domain spells and special features. Cleric characters are the premier healers and support casters, but they're far more versatile than that. With medium armor, shields, and a powerful spell list, Clerics can serve as front-line fighters, battlefield controllers, or dedicated healers. The Life Domain (SRD) is the definitive healing subclass, making every healing spell more effective.
How it works
Hit Die: d8 Primary Ability: Wisdom Saving Throws: Wisdom, Charisma Spellcasting: Full caster using Wisdom. Prepares spells from entire Cleric list each day. Up to 9th level slots. Channel Divinity: Supernatural abilities recharged on short rest. All Clerics get Turn Undead. Domain grants additional options. Life Domain (SRD): Bonus healing on spells (2 + spell level extra HP), heavy armor proficiency, Preserve Life (Channel Divinity to distribute healing), Supreme Healing (maximize healing dice at level 17).
Tips and playstyle
Character Concepts: Temple priest, battlefield medic, wandering missionary, divine champion, oracle, inquisitor, community healer. Playstyle: Clerics are incredibly versatile. Life Domain lets you be the best healer in the game, but don't neglect offensive spells like Spirit Guardians and Spiritual Weapon. You can hold the front line with heavy armor and a shield. Synergies: Spiritual Weapon (bonus action damage) + Spirit Guardians (area damage) is the classic Cleric combo. War Caster feat helps maintain concentration. High WIS benefits both spellcasting and Perception.
Frequently asked questions
Do Clerics have to be religious?
Mechanically, Clerics draw power from a deity or divine force. In the SRD, this is tied to domains. Your DM might allow alternative flavors (devotion to an ideal, cosmic force, etc.), but traditionally Clerics serve a god.
How does spell preparation work for Clerics?
After each long rest, you can prepare a number of spells equal to your WIS modifier + Cleric level. You can choose from the entire Cleric spell list (plus domain spells, which are always prepared). This gives you incredible flexibility.