How many times can channel divinity be used?

How Many Times Can Channel Divinity Be Used?

Channel Divinity is a powerful feature in the 5th edition of Dungeons & Dragons that allows Clerics to tap into their deity’s power to perform various miracles. However, one of the most common questions about Channel Divinity is how many times it can be used. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide some additional insights into how Channel Divinity works.

Direct Answer

According to the official 5th edition Player’s Handbook, Channel Divinity can be used once per Short or Long Rest. This means that Clerics can use Channel Divinity a maximum of twice per day, assuming they take a Short Rest and a Long Rest.

Level-Dependent Uses

However, starting at 6th level, Clerics gain an additional use of Channel Divinity, bringing the total to twice per Short or Long Rest. At 18th level, Clerics gain another additional use, making it three times per Short or Long Rest.

Cooldown

It’s important to note that Channel Divinity has a cooldown period of 1 hour of walking, fighting, casting spells, or similar adventuring activity. This means that if a Cleric uses Channel Divinity and then engages in any of these activities for at least 1 hour, they will not be able to use Channel Divinity again until they take a Short or Long Rest.

Holy Symbol

Some Channel Divinity features may require the Cleric to present their holy symbol. This can include features such as Turn Undead and Preserve Life. If a Cleric is without their holy symbol, they will not be able to use these features.

Interrupted Rest

If a Cleric’s rest is interrupted by a period of strenuous activity, they will not be able to gain any benefits from their rest, including using Channel Divinity. They will need to start their rest again to gain the benefits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Channel Divinity can be used once per Short or Long Rest, with additional uses gained at 6th and 18th level. It’s important to note the cooldown period and the requirement for a holy symbol for certain features. Additionally, Clerics should be aware that their rest can be interrupted, preventing them from gaining the benefits of Channel Divinity.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use Channel Divinity during combat? No, Channel Divinity can only be used during a Short or Long Rest.
• Can I use Channel Divinity multiple times in a single rest? No, Channel Divinity can only be used once per Short or Long Rest.
• Do I need a holy symbol to use Channel Divinity? No, but some Channel Divinity features may require a holy symbol.
• Can I use Channel Divinity if my rest is interrupted? No, if your rest is interrupted, you will not be able to gain any benefits from your rest, including using Channel Divinity.

Table: Channel Divinity Uses

Bullets: Channel Divinity Features

• Turn Undead: As an action, you present your holy symbol and invoke the name of your deity. Each undead creature within 30 feet of you must make a Wisdom saving throw.
• Preserve Life: As an action, you present your holy symbol and evoke healing energy that can restore a number of hit points equal to five times your cleric level. Choose any creatures within 30 feet of you, and divide those hit points among them.
• Charm Animals and Plants: As an action, you present your holy symbol and invoke the name of your deity. Each beast or plant creature that can see you within 30 feet of you must make a Wisdom saving throw.

I hope this article has provided a comprehensive answer to the question of how many times Channel Divinity can be used. Remember to always consult the official 5th edition Player’s Handbook for the most up-to-date and accurate information.