Does lay on hands work on undead?

Does Lay on Hands Work on Undead?

In the world of Dungeons & Dragons, Lay on Hands is a powerful healing spell that can cure diseases, neutralize poisons, and restore hit points to a target. However, a common question arises: does Lay on Hands work on undead creatures? In this article, we will delve into the mechanics of Lay on Hands and explore the answer to this question.

Lay on Hands Mechanics

Before we dive into the undead, let’s quickly review the mechanics of Lay on Hands. The spell allows a cleric to transfer their own life force to a target, curing diseases, neutralizing poisons, and restoring hit points. The spell has no effect on constructs, and its effects can be negated by certain conditions.

Does Lay on Hands Work on Undead?

According to the official Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition rulebook, Lay on Hands has no effect on undead creatures. Undead creatures are immune to the effects of Lay on Hands. This means that if a cleric attempts to use Lay on Hands on an undead creature, the spell will not function.

Exceptions

There are some exceptions to this rule. Certain undead creatures, such as those created by magic or specific rituals, may be vulnerable to Lay on Hands. However, these exceptions are rare and require specific circumstances to occur.

Undead Creatures and Disease

When it comes to disease, undead creatures are immune to the effects of Lay on Hands. Diseases cannot affect undead creatures. This means that if a disease is spreading through a group of characters, an undead creature will not be affected.

Poisons and Lay on Hands

Poisons, on the other hand, are a different story. Lay on Hands can neutralize poisons on a target, but only if the target is not undead. If a cleric uses Lay on Hands on an undead creature with a poison, the poison will not be neutralized.

Consequences

If a cleric attempts to use Lay on Hands on an undead creature, the consequences can be severe. The cleric will lose the amount of hit points equal to the amount of hit points they attempted to restore. This can be devastating for a cleric, especially if they are already injured.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lay on Hands does not work on undead creatures. Undead creatures are immune to the effects of Lay on Hands. While there may be some exceptions to this rule, they are rare and require specific circumstances to occur. When dealing with undead creatures, clerics must rely on other methods of healing and support.