Can you use two divine smites in one turn?

Can You Use Two Divine Smites in One Turn?

Introduction

In Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition, Divine Smite is a popular paladin spell that can deal significant radiant damage to enemies. It is often asked whether you can use two Divine Smites in one turn, especially in combination with other powerful abilities. In this article, we’ll examine the rules surrounding Divine Smite to answer this question once and for all.

The Official Rules

The official rules of Dungeons & Dragons are quite clear on the subject of Divine Smite. According to the Player’s Handbook (p. 78-79), Divine Smite can be used once per turn as a bonus action when you hit a creature with a melee attack. Additionally, the D&D 5th edition Basic Rules (p. 69-71) specify that a paladin’s features and spells cannot be used if the paladin is Frenzied or if they do not have the freedom of movement.

Multiple Uses of Divine Smite

While Divine Smite can only be used once per turn as a bonus action, it’s possible to hit an enemy multiple times in a turn with a single attack. If you’re using a spell like Green Flame Blade, which can create multiple secondary target creatures, you might be tempted to try to use Divine Smite twice. However, this is not currently allowed by the rules.

Table: Using Divine Smite in Combination with Green Flame Blade

Exception to the Rule?

Some argue that Divine Smite can be used multiple times per turn if the paladin casts a spell, concentrates on a spell. In this scenario, the rules for Concentration (PHB p. 233-235) specify that concentration is the focus of a spell’s energy or attention. This allows the paladin to use Divine Smite multiple times in a turn if they wish, but this requires careful understanding of Concentration rules.

Counterargument

The official Dungeon Masters’ Guild, in several questions and answers, have argued against the idea that Divine Smite can be used multiple times per turn.

"Can a paladin cast Divine Smite and then make a second attack?" (RPG Stack Exchange)

"[Paladin’s] free actions, like Divine Smite, are not optional, as long as you are in good health. As a general rule, a single attack from an action and a subsequent use of free actions, for instance, are not acceptable, unless stated otherwise [emphasis added]"."

Conclusion

In conclusion, Divine Smite can be used only once per turn as a bonus action. While Green Flame Blade creates multiple secondary targets, using Divine Smite multiple times in a turn is currently not supported by the official rules. Any exceptions will depend on careful reading of Concentration rules and potential House Rulings.

Remember, the answer to "Can you use two Divine Smites in one turn?" is NO… but that’s what makes DMs so important – setting boundaries and adding depth to our D&D experiences.

Please note:

Note to DM’s and Players

While using two Divine Smites in one turn may currently be not possible in the official rule set, you, as players or DMs, may choose to innovate or create custom content to improve the gameplay experience. When creating customized content, always discuss and understand the impact on balance and house rules.

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