10 Best Monk Spells to Elevate Your D&D Gameplay

Monks are some of the most versatile and fun-to-play classes in Dungeons & Dragons. They can fight, heal, support, and more. Spells are one of the most powerful tools at a monk’s disposal, and this guide will help you choose the best ones for your character. When choosing spells for your monk, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, think about what role you want your monk to play in the party. Do you want to be a damage dealer, a healer, or a support character? Once you know what role you want to play, you can start choosing spells that will help you fill that role.

Second, consider the monk’s spellcasting ability. Monks use Wisdom as their spellcasting ability, so you’ll want to choose spells that have a high Wisdom save DC. This will make it more difficult for enemies to resist your spells. Finally, don’t forget about the monk’s ki points. Ki points are a valuable resource that can be used to power certain spells and abilities. When choosing spells, try to choose ones that don’t require too many ki points to cast. The spells that you choose for your monk will depend on your character’s build and playstyle, but there are some spells that are good choices for any monk. Here are a few of the best spells for monks:

Stunning Strike is a great way to lock down a single enemy. It forces the target to make a Wisdom saving throw, and if they fail, they are stunned until the end of your next turn. This can be a powerful spell, especially if you use it to target a spellcaster or another key enemy. Flurry of Blows is a good spell for when you want to deal some extra damage. It allows you to make two unarmed attacks as a bonus action. This can be a great way to finish off an enemy or to deal some extra damage to a group of enemies. Patient Defense is a good spell for when you want to increase your AC. It gives you a +2 bonus to AC until the end of your next turn. This can be helpful if you’re facing a tough enemy or if you’re trying to avoid being hit by a spell. Step of the Wind is a good spell for when you need to move around quickly. It allows you to teleport up to 30 feet as a bonus action. This can be helpful for getting into position to attack an enemy, for escaping from danger, or for simply getting around the battlefield.

Transcendence through Serenity

Peaceful Disposition

At the heart of a monk’s tranquility lies their ability to maintain a calm and collected demeanor even in the face of adversity. This inner peace manifests as an aura of serenity that surrounds them, radiating an aura of tranquility that can soothe others. Their unwavering composure allows them to move through life with grace and ease, unperturbed by the chaos that may ensue around them.

Their ability to remain unyielding in their serenity grants monks the following benefits:

Increased resistance to mental and emotional disturbances.
Heightened concentration and clarity of thought.
Superior resilience in overcoming challenges and hardships.
A profound sense of inner balance and contentment.

This unwavering calm is not simply a passive state, but an active and intentional practice. Monks cultivate this serenity through regular meditation, mindfulness exercises, and the study of ancient wisdom. They learn to observe their thoughts and emotions without judgment, allowing them to flow freely and without attachment. It is through this dedicated practice that they attain a state of true inner peace, a transcendent serenity that empowers them to navigate the complexities of life with grace and resilience.

The Path of Radiant Strikes

The Path of Radiant Strikes is a monastic tradition that emphasizes the use of radiant energy in combat. Monks who follow this path gain access to a variety of spells that allow them to deal radiant damage to their enemies.

Ki-Empowered Strikes

At 3rd level, monks of the Path of Radiant Strikes gain the ability to infuse their strikes with radiant energy. Whenever they hit a creature with an unarmed strike, they deal an additional 1d4 radiant damage.

This damage increases to 2d4 at 6th level, 3d4 at 11th level, and 4d4 at 17th level.

Level	Additional Radiant Damage
3	1d4
6	2d4
11	3d4
17	4d4

In addition, monks of the Path of Radiant Strikes can use their Ki to activate a special ability called Radiant Flurry. When they do so, they can make two additional attacks with their unarmed strikes, and each attack deals an additional 1d4 radiant damage.

Celestial Fury Unleashed

In the ethereal realm, where the celestial tapestry unfurls, one encounters the formidable Monk, whose fists crackle with the power of the heavens. Among their arsenal of mystical techniques, they wield the celestial fury, a devastating force that strikes with unmatched precision and potency.

Fangs of the Azure Dragon

With swift precision, the Monk unleashes a rapid succession of blows, each infused with the power of the Azure Dragon. These strikes tear through the opponent’s defenses, leaving behind a trail of lacerated wounds. As the Monk’s fists blur, it becomes impossible to counter their relentless onslaught.

Cloudsplitter Cry

Summoning the thunderous roar of the heavens, the Monk emits a deafening war cry that ripples through the air. The force of their voice shatters the very ground beneath them, stunning nearby enemies and leaving them open to further attacks. This potent spell serves as both a warning and a battle cry, echoing the Monk’s unyielding determination to vanquish all who oppose them.

Celestial Palm Strike

The ultimate expression of celestial fury, this spell concentrates the full might of the heavens into a single, devastating blow. As the Monk gathers their energy, their fists glow with an ethereal light. With lightning-fast reflexes, they strike, unleashing a torrent of celestial force that obliterates any who stand in their path. The Celestial Palm Strike is a testament to the Monk’s unwavering resolve and the indomitable power they wield.

Defeating Darkness with Divine Light

Harnessing the power of celestial energy, monks unleash a radiant onslaught against the forces of evil. Through their unwavering faith and divine incantations, they strike with blinding light and purify the darkness that threatens the world.

Celestial Strike

A shimmering bolt of celestial energy pierces through enemies, dealing significant damage. This spell not only strikes with physical force, but also emanates a holy aura that saps the strength of demonic entities.

Sacred Radiance

A brilliant dome of radiant energy surrounds the monk and allies, shielding them from harm. This spell absorbs incoming attacks and reflects them outward in a burst of divine power, damaging nearby enemies.

Holy Smite

The monk channels the raw power of the divine, unleashing a devastating blow that deals colossal damage to a single target. This spell is particularly effective against unholy creatures, causing them to recoil in terror and burn from within.

Sacred Purification

A powerful incantation that purifies an area, clearing it of evil spirits and curses. This spell grants immunity to negative status effects, such as poison and disease, and restores the health of those within its radius.

Spell	Effect
Celestial Strike	Piercing bolt of celestial energy, damaging enemies and sapping demonic strength.
Sacred Radiance	Shielding dome of radiant energy, absorbing attacks and damaging nearby enemies.
Holy Smite	Colossal damage to a single target, especially effective against unholy creatures.
Sacred Purification	Purifies an area, clearing evil spirits and curses, restoring health and granting immunity to negative effects.

Mastery over Ki and Spiritual Essence

Ki, the vital life energy that flows through all living beings, is the monk’s primary weapon. They can harness their ki to unleash powerful spells and abilities, both offensive and defensive. Through rigorous meditation and training, monks can master their ki, increasing its potency and versatility.

Spiritual Essence

Monks also possess a deep understanding of spiritual essence, the intangible force that connects all living things. They can draw upon this essence to heal wounds, dispel darkness, and even alter the fabric of reality. In moments of great need, monks can unleash their spiritual essence to perform extraordinary feats of power.

Ki Empowerment

One of the monk’s most fundamental abilities is Ki Empowerment. By infusing their weapons or fists with ki, they can enhance their physical attacks, making them more powerful and accurate. This technique allows monks to engage in close combat with even the most formidable opponents.

Ki Blasts

Monks can also unleash their ki as energy blasts, damaging their enemies from a distance. These blasts can vary in size and intensity, from quick bursts of energy to devastating beams of pure ki. With practice, monks can control the trajectory and power of their blasts, making them a versatile and effective form of attack.

Healing and Support

In addition to their offensive abilities, monks are skilled healers and support casters. They can use their ki to heal wounds, remove harmful effects, and restore their allies’ vitality. This makes them invaluable members of any adventuring party.

Monk Spellcasting

The monk’s spellcasting abilities are unique among martial classes. They do not prepare spells in the traditional sense, but instead select a number of spells from their spell list at certain levels. These spells are drawn from the celestial, necromancy, and primeval essence disciplines.

Level	Spells Known
1	3
2	3
3	3
4	3
5	3
6	3
7	3
8	3
9	3
10	3
11	3
12	3
13	3
14	3
15	3
16	3
17	3
18	3
19	3
20	3

The monk’s spellcasting capabilities enhance their martial prowess, making them a formidable force in both melee combat and ranged spellcasting.

Warrior’s Charge

Warrior’s Charge is a swift maneuver that allows the monk to close the distance to their opponent swiftly. This ability enhances the monk’s mobility and enables them to engage in close-quarters combat more effectively.

Whirling Dragon Punch

Whirling Dragon Punch is a powerful attack that unleashes a flurry of blows upon the monk’s target. This ability delivers a devastating combination of strikes that can overwhelm and incapacitate even formidable foes.

Spinning Crane Kick

Spinning Crane Kick is an iconic technique that exemplifies the monk’s agility and grace. This ability allows the monk to execute a spinning kick that generates tremendous force, knocking their opponent off balance and creating an opening for further attacks.

Celestial Slam

Celestial Slam is a thunderous attack that sends a wave of energy crashing down upon the monk’s opponent. This ability deals significant damage and has the potential to stun the target, leaving them vulnerable to follow-up strikes.

Tiger’s Fury

Tiger’s Fury is a formidable ability that grants the monk enhanced strength and speed for a limited duration. During this time, the monk’s attacks become more potent, allowing them to overwhelm their opponent with a barrage of strikes.

Unleash the Dragon

Unleash the Dragon is the monk’s ultimate ability, unleashing their true potential. This ability transforms the monk into a living weapon, granting them increased damage, mobility, and survivability. With each successful attack, the monk accumulates a surge of energy, which can be channeled into powerful special attacks that can devastate their opponents.

Spell Name	Effect
Warrior’s Charge	Swiftly close the distance to an opponent
Whirling Dragon Punch	Unleash a flurry of blows on a target
Spinning Crane Kick	Execute a spinning kick that generates force
Celestial Slam	Send a wave of energy crashing down on an opponent
Tiger’s Fury	Grant enhanced strength and speed for a limited duration
Unleash the Dragon	Transform into a living weapon with increased damage, mobility, and survivability

Wielding the Power of Divine Intervention

Harnessing the divine, monks wield extraordinary spells that call upon celestial powers. Their unwavering faith empowers them to unleash both healing and destructive forces upon the battlefield.

Heavenly Healing

Monks can mend wounds and restore vitality through divine intervention. Spells like Healing Word and Cure Wounds swiftly heal allies, while Mass Healing Word rejuvenates entire groups. Their restorative powers make them invaluable companions in any adventuring party.

Smiting Evil

Divine retribution is at their disposal. Spells like Inflict Wounds and Burning Hands unleash holy fire and radiant energy, decimating their foes. Sacred Flame burns with divine fervor, dealing both damage and healing to those it touches.

Divine Buffs

Monks can bolster their allies with divine blessings. Bless enhances saving throws and attack rolls, while Protection from Evil and Good shields them from harm. Sanctuary grants temporary invulnerability, providing respite from the chaos of battle.

Dispelling Darkness

Monks combat the forces of darkness with potent spells. Dispel Evil and Good banishes fiends and undead, while Detect Evil and Good reveals their presence. Remove Curse breaks the shackles of ancient enchantments, restoring freedom to the afflicted.

Elemental Mastery

Some monks channel divine energy into elemental forces. Create Water summons forth life-giving water, while Control Flames manipulates fire to their advantage. Thunderwave releases a concussive blast, knocking foes prone and shattering obstacles.

Divine Insight

Monks’ spiritual connection grants them profound insight. Detect Thoughts allows them to read minds, while Commune with Nature grants access to the wisdom of the natural world. Augury provides guidance from divine sources, aiding their decision-making.

Table of Monk Divine Spells

Spell	Level	Effect
Healing Word	1	Heals an ally
Inflict Wounds	1	Damages a foe
Bless	1	Enhances ally’s abilities
Sanctuary	1	Grants invulnerability
Dispel Evil and Good	3	Banishes evil creatures
Create Water	3	Summons water
Commune with Nature	5	Grants wisdom from nature

Ascending to the Realm of Spiritual Mastery

1. The Path to Enlightenment

Embarking on a spiritual journey requires a deep commitment to self-discovery and growth. Embrace the practices of mindfulness, meditation, and introspection to cultivate inner awareness and connect with your true essence.

2. The Power of Intention

Manifest your aspirations through the power of intention. Clearly define your goals and align your actions with your desires. The universe is responsive to your thoughts and emotions; focus them on positive outcomes to shape your reality.

3. The Art of Surrender

Letting go of control and embracing the flow of life is essential for spiritual growth. Trust in the divine plan and surrender to the present moment. By releasing resistance, you create space for grace and abundance to enter your life.

4. The Importance of Gratitude

Cultivate a practice of gratitude to shift your perspective and appreciate the beauty in everyday moments. Expressing thankfulness for your blessings amplifies positive energy and attracts even more abundance into your life.

5. The Practice of Forgiveness

Holding onto grudges weighs you down and blocks your spiritual progress. Practice forgiveness to release negative emotions and create inner peace. Forgive yourself and others, allowing wounds to heal and relationships to blossom.

6. The Power of Love

Love is the most potent force in the universe. Extend compassion to all beings, including yourself. Embrace the love within and let it radiate outward, transforming your life and the world around you.

7. The Journey of Transformation

Spiritual growth is a continuous process of shedding old patterns and embracing new perspectives. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation. Let go of limitations and step into the unknown, where your true potential awaits.

8. The Eightfold Path to Enlightenment

Step	Description
1. Right Understanding	Comprehending the nature of reality and the cycle of suffering.
2. Right Thought	Cultivating wholesome thoughts and intentions.
3. Right Speech	Using words ethically and constructively.
4. Right Action	Engaging in ethical conduct and avoiding harm.
5. Right Livelihood	Earning a living in a way that aligns with ethical principles.
6. Right Effort	Making consistent effort towards enlightenment.
7. Right Mindfulness	Paying attention to the present moment with a clear and non-judgmental mind.
8. Right Concentration	Cultivating focused and stable attention, leading to deep inner peace and insight.

Unifying Mind, Body, and Spirit in Combat

Monks are a versatile class in Dungeons & Dragons, capable of both melee combat and spellcasting. Their spells focus on self-improvement and enhancing their physical abilities, making them formidable opponents in close quarters. Here are some of the best spells for any monk wanting to dominate the battlefield:

1. Stunning Strike

Stunning Strike is a debilitating attack that can paralyze an enemy for a turn. It’s a great way to control the battlefield and set up your allies for devastating attacks.

2. Flurry of Blows

Flurry of Blows allows you to make multiple unarmed attacks as a bonus action. This can dish out a lot of damage and overwhelm your opponents.

3. Patient Defense

Patient Defense gives you a bonus to AC and disadvantage on attacks of opportunity. This makes you a tough target to hit and can help you stay in the fight longer.

4. Step of the Wind

Step of the Wind allows you to teleport a short distance. This can be used to dodge attacks, reposition yourself, or escape danger.

5. Unarmored Defense

Unarmored Defense lets you use your Dexterity modifier instead of your AC. This can make you very difficult to hit, especially if you have a high Dexterity score.

6. Shadow Step

Shadow Step lets you teleport up to 60 feet to a shadowy area. This can be used to sneak up on enemies or escape from combat.

7. Diamond Soul

Diamond Soul gives you resistance to all damage except psychic damage. This makes you very resilient and can help you survive deadly attacks.

8. Ki Strike

Ki Strike allows you to make a melee attack that deals radiant damage. This can be useful against enemies that are resistant or immune to other types of damage.

9. Astral Projection

Astral Projection lets you project your astral self into the Astral Plane. This allows you to travel long distances, scout out areas, and spy on enemies. It also gives you access to a variety of spiritual powers.

These are just a few of the many spells that monks can use to enhance their combat abilities. With the right combination of spells and martial arts techniques, monks can become formidable opponents on the battlefield.

Becoming a Conduit of Divine Power

Monks are revered as holy warriors, channeling divine energy to heal, protect, and vanquish their foes. To become a conduit of divine power, they undergo a rigorous path of meditation, training, and devotion.

10 Key Elements of Monkhood

Element	Description
Martial Prowess	Monks train tirelessly in unarmed combat, wielding their bodies as weapons of righteousness.
Inner Discipline	Monks possess unwavering focus and control, allowing them to channel divine energy with precision.
Prayer and Meditation	Through communion with their deity, monks establish a deep spiritual connection, tapping into divine power.
Devotion	Monks’ unwavering faith fuels their connection to divine energy, empowering their spells.
Holy Symbols	Sacred artifacts and symbols focus the monk’s spiritual energy, enhancing the potency of their spells.
Channeling Energy	Monks can direct divine energy into healing touch, stunning strikes, or bursts of radiant damage.
Protection and Warding	Monks can invoke divine power to protect themselves and their allies from harm.
Alignment	A monk’s alignment dictates the nature of their divine energy, ranging from lawful to chaotic, good to evil.
Subclasses	Monks specialize in various subclasses, such as Way of the Open Hand or Way of Shadow, each offering unique abilities and spells.
Masterful Combatants	Monks’ martial prowess combined with their divine power makes them fearsome adversaries on the battlefield.

Best Spells for Monks

Monks are a versatile class that can deal good damage and protect their allies. They have a variety of spells that can help them in combat, including healing spells, damage spells, and crowd control spells. The best spells for monks will depend on the monk’s build, and below are the things to consider when choosing spells for monks.

Things to consider when choosing spells for monks

Monk’s subclass: Different subclasses have access to different spells. For example, the Way of the Open Hand subclass gets access to spells like Flurry of Blows and Stunning Strike, so it is generally better to choose spells that complement your monk’s subclass features.
Monk’s level: New spells are unlocked at different levels. From level 1 to 5, monks can prepare spells level 1 and 2. By level 6, monks can cast up to level 3 spells and higher as they level higher.
Monk’s ability scores: Wisdom is the most important ability score for monks, as it determines the power of their spells. Dexterity is also important, as it determines the monk’s AC and attack bonus. Strength and Charisma are less important for monks, but they can still be useful for certain builds.
Monk’s party composition: It is important to consider the other members of your party when choosing spells. If the group already has a dedicated healer, you may not need to take as many healing spells. If the group lacks crowd control, you may want to choose spells that can help you control the battlefield.

Here are some of the best spells to consider for monks:

Healing Word is a great spell for healing your allies and keeping them in the fight. The spell can be cast as a bonus action, making it very efficient.
Misty Step is a great utility spell that allows you to teleport 30 feet. This can be very useful for getting out of danger, or for reaching an enemy that is out of your reach.
Stunning Strike is a powerful spell that can paralyze an enemy for 1 round. This spell is very effective against bosses and other powerful enemies.
Ki Strike is a good damage spell that adds 1d10 damage to your unarmed strikes. This spell can be cast as a bonus action, making it very efficient.
Haste is a great buff spell that gives your allies an extra action. This spell can be very powerful in combat, especially if you have allies who can deal a lot of damage.