Paladin Subclass 5e Guide Choosing The Best Sacred Oath

Jul 8, 2025 by Jeany 56 views

Choosing the right Paladin subclass, or Sacred Oath, in Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition (5e) can significantly impact your character's roleplaying experience and combat effectiveness. Paladins are divine warriors, bound by oaths to uphold justice, protect the innocent, and vanquish evil. Their Sacred Oath not only defines their moral compass but also grants them unique abilities, spells, and class features. This comprehensive guide delves into the core aspects of Paladin subclasses, providing insights into each Sacred Oath to help you choose the best one for your character and playstyle. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the world of D&D, understanding the nuances of each oath will empower you to create a Paladin that truly embodies your heroic vision.

Understanding the Paladin Class in 5e

The Paladin class in 5e is a powerful blend of martial prowess and divine magic. Paladins are known for their strong melee combat abilities, heavy armor proficiency, and the ability to smite their foes with divine energy. However, what truly sets Paladins apart is their commitment to a Sacred Oath. This oath is a solemn vow that dictates the Paladin's behavior and provides them with divine power. The Oath a Paladin chooses shapes their abilities, spells, and overall playstyle, making it a crucial decision in character creation.

Core Features of the Paladin Class

Before diving into the specifics of each subclass, let's examine the core features that define the Paladin class:

Divine Smite: This is arguably the Paladin's signature ability. By expending a spell slot, a Paladin can add radiant damage to their weapon attacks, making them devastating against undead and fiends.
Lay on Hands: A Paladin can use this ability to heal themselves or their allies by expending a pool of healing points. It's a versatile tool for both in and out of combat.
Divine Health: At 3rd level, Paladins gain immunity to disease, reflecting their purity and divine connection.
Aura of Protection: At 6th level, the Paladin and friendly creatures within 10 feet gain a bonus to saving throws equal to the Paladin's Charisma modifier. This aura is a powerful defensive buff that enhances the survivability of the entire party.
Aura of Courage: At 10th level, the Paladin and friendly creatures within 10 feet become immune to fear, bolstering their resolve in the face of danger.
Improved Divine Smite: At 11th level, the Paladin's weapon attacks deal an additional 1d8 radiant damage, further enhancing their damage output.

These core features make the Paladin a formidable force on the battlefield and a valuable asset to any adventuring party. However, it is the choice of Sacred Oath that truly defines the Paladin's identity and capabilities.

Exploring the Sacred Oaths

Sacred Oaths are the subclasses of the Paladin class, each representing a different path of devotion and a unique set of tenets. These tenets are not merely suggestions; they are the guiding principles that a Paladin strives to uphold. Violating these tenets can have serious consequences, potentially leading to the loss of divine powers. Understanding the tenets of each oath is crucial for roleplaying a Paladin effectively and ensuring that your character's actions align with their chosen path. Here, we will delve into the most popular Sacred Oaths, exploring their tenets, features, and optimal playstyles.

Oath of Devotion

The Oath of Devotion is the quintessential Paladin oath, embodying the ideals of chivalry, justice, and righteousness. Paladins who swear this oath are dedicated to protecting the innocent, fighting evil, and upholding the highest standards of honor and virtue. The tenets of the Oath of Devotion emphasize honesty, courage, compassion, honor, and duty. This subclass is perfect for players who want to embody the classic image of a knight in shining armor, a beacon of hope in a dark world.

Tenets of Devotion

The tenets of the Oath of Devotion provide a clear framework for Paladin behavior:

Honesty: Be truthful in your dealings. Let your word be your bond.
Courage: Never fear to act, though caution is wise.
Compassion: Aid others, protect the weak, and punish those who threaten them. Show mercy to your foes, but temper it with wisdom.
Honor: Treat others with fairness, and let your honorable deeds be an example to them. Do as much good as possible while causing the least amount of harm.
Duty: Be responsible for your actions and their consequences, protect those entrusted to your care, and obey those who have just authority over you.

Key Features of the Oath of Devotion

Channel Divinity: The Oath of Devotion grants two Channel Divinity options:
- Sacred Weapon: The Paladin can imbue their weapon with divine power, adding their Charisma modifier to attack rolls and emitting bright light.
- Turn the Unholy: The Paladin can force undead and fiends to make a Wisdom saving throw, potentially turning them away.
Oath Spells: Paladins of Devotion gain access to a suite of spells that enhance their defensive and supportive capabilities, such as protection from evil and good, lesser restoration, and holy weapon.
Aura of Devotion: At 7th level, the Paladin and friendly creatures within 10 feet cannot be charmed while the Paladin is conscious.
Holy Nimbus: At 20th level, the Paladin can unleash a radiant aura that grants advantage on attack rolls and causes radiant damage to nearby enemies.

Optimal Playstyle for Oath of Devotion

The Oath of Devotion Paladin excels as a front-line fighter and protector of their allies. Their Channel Divinity options and oath spells enhance their combat prowess and provide valuable support to the party. They are particularly effective against undead and fiends, thanks to their Turn the Unholy ability and radiant damage buffs. The Aura of Devotion makes them a bulwark against charm effects, while the Holy Nimbus transforms them into a radiant force on the battlefield. This subclass is perfect for players who enjoy a straightforward, heroic playstyle centered around protecting the innocent and vanquishing evil.

Oath of the Ancients

The Oath of the Ancients is sworn to the forces of good, using nature’s power and the light of the sun to keep the world safe. Often called fey knights, green knights, or horned knights, paladins who swear this oath cast their lot with the side of light in the cosmic struggle against darkness because they love the beautiful and life-giving things of the world, not because of any strictures of honor, courage, or duty. The tenets of the Oath of the Ancients emphasize kindness, igniting the light, sheltering the light, and preserving your own light. This subclass is ideal for players who want to connect with the natural world and embody the spirit of joy and resilience.

Tenets of the Ancients

The tenets of the Oath of the Ancients are more flexible and open to interpretation, focusing on preserving the natural world and fostering joy and hope:

Kindle the Light: Through your acts of mercy, kindness, and forgiveness, enkindle hope in the world, beating back despair.
Shelter the Light: Where there is good, beauty, love, and laughter in the world, stand against the wickedness that would swallow it. Where life flourishes, stand against the forces that would render it barren.
Preserve Your Own Light: Delight in life's simple gifts, and let your heart be the wellspring that sustains your own light.
Be the Light: Be a glorious beacon for all who live in despair. Be the touchstone that they can turn to when all other hope is lost.

Key Features of the Oath of the Ancients

Channel Divinity: The Oath of the Ancients offers two Channel Divinity options:
- Nature's Wrath: The Paladin can conjure thorny vines to restrain an enemy.
- Turn the Faithless: The Paladin can force fey and undead to make a Wisdom saving throw, potentially turning them away.
Oath Spells: Paladins of the Ancients gain access to spells that reflect their connection to nature and their ability to heal and protect, such as ensnaring strike, moonbeam, and tree stride.
Aura of Warding: At 7th level, the Paladin and friendly creatures within 10 feet take only half damage from spells.
Elder Champion: At 20th level, the Paladin can transform into an avatar of nature, gaining various benefits, including the ability to heal allies and hinder enemies.

Optimal Playstyle for Oath of the Ancients

The Oath of the Ancients Paladin is a resilient and versatile character, capable of both dealing damage and supporting their allies. Their Channel Divinity options provide battlefield control, while their oath spells offer healing and protective abilities. The Aura of Warding is a powerful defensive buff against spellcasters, and the Elder Champion transformation makes them a formidable force in combat. This subclass is well-suited for players who enjoy a blend of melee combat, spellcasting, and support, with a strong emphasis on protecting the natural world and fostering hope.

Oath of Vengeance

The Oath of Vengeance is the path for Paladins who are willing to sacrifice even their own purity to right a wrong. Paladins who swear this oath are driven by a burning desire to punish evildoers and bring justice to the world, often at any cost. The tenets of the Oath of Vengeance emphasize fighting the greater evil, no restraint on your own vengeance, collateral damage, and defeating a greater evil. This subclass is designed for players who want to play a darker, more ruthless Paladin, willing to make difficult choices in the pursuit of justice.

Tenets of Vengeance

The tenets of the Oath of Vengeance are more pragmatic and focused on achieving justice through any means necessary:

Fight the Greater Evil: Faced with a choice of fighting my sworn foes or combating a lesser evil, I choose the greater evil.
No Mercy for the Wicked: Ordinary foes might win my mercy, but my sworn enemies do not.
By Any Means Necessary: My qualms can't get in the way of exterminating my foes.
Restitution: If my foes wreak ruin on the world, then I will stop them from doing it again.

Key Features of the Oath of Vengeance

Channel Divinity: The Oath of Vengeance provides two Channel Divinity options:
- Abjure Enemy: The Paladin can force a creature to make a Wisdom saving throw, potentially frightening them.
- Vow of Enmity: The Paladin can grant themselves advantage on attack rolls against a single enemy for one minute.
Oath Spells: Paladins of Vengeance gain access to spells that enhance their combat prowess and allow them to track and punish their enemies, such as bane, hunter's mark, and hold monster.
Relentless Avenger: At 7th level, the Paladin can move half their speed as a reaction when an opportunity attack misses them, allowing them to stay close to their target.
Avenging Angel: At 20th level, the Paladin can transform into an avenging angel, gaining wings, a fly speed, and an aura of fear that weakens enemies.

Optimal Playstyle for Oath of Vengeance

The Oath of Vengeance Paladin is a relentless and deadly warrior, focused on single-target damage and pursuing their enemies with unwavering determination. Their Channel Divinity options enhance their combat effectiveness, while their oath spells provide valuable utility and control. The Relentless Avenger feature allows them to maintain their assault, and the Avenging Angel transformation turns them into a terrifying force on the battlefield. This subclass is ideal for players who enjoy a more aggressive and proactive playstyle, focused on punishing evildoers and bringing justice to the world, even if it means making difficult choices.

Oath of Redemption

The Oath of Redemption is a unique path for Paladins who seek to redeem wrongdoers and bring peace to the world through diplomacy and compassion. Paladins who swear this oath believe that anyone can be redeemed and that violence should be a last resort. The tenets of the Oath of Redemption emphasize peace, innocence, wisdom, and conviction. This subclass is perfect for players who want to challenge the traditional Paladin archetype and explore a more pacifistic and diplomatic approach to heroism.

Tenets of Redemption

The tenets of the Oath of Redemption are centered around compassion, understanding, and the belief in the possibility of redemption:

Peace: Violence is always the last option. To bring about the best solution, try empathy, diplomacy, and understanding.
Innocence: All people begin in innocence, and every person can be redeemed if they take the right path.
Wisdom: Patience and discernment are required to seek redemption in others, so choose your words and actions wisely.
Conviction: Your heart must be true to your oath, but do not let that cloud your mind. Show conviction in your path, but make sure that path is correct.

Key Features of the Oath of Redemption

Channel Divinity: The Oath of Redemption offers two Channel Divinity options:
- Emissary of Peace: The Paladin gains proficiency in Persuasion and can add a bonus to Charisma checks made to influence others.
- Rebuke the Violent: The Paladin can force an attacker to take radiant damage when they deal damage to a creature other than the Paladin.
Oath Spells: Paladins of Redemption gain access to spells that enhance their diplomatic and protective abilities, such as sanctuary, hold person, and counterspell.
Aura of the Guardian: At 7th level, the Paladin can take damage in place of an ally within 10 feet.
Emissary of Redemption: At 20th level, the Paladin can emanate an aura of peace and healing, making them a beacon of hope on the battlefield.

Optimal Playstyle for Oath of Redemption

The Oath of Redemption Paladin is a support-oriented character, focused on protecting their allies and redeeming their enemies. Their Channel Divinity options enhance their diplomatic skills and allow them to punish aggressors without resorting to violence. Their oath spells provide valuable control and protection, while the Aura of the Guardian makes them a selfless protector. The Emissary of Redemption transformation solidifies their role as a beacon of peace and healing. This subclass is well-suited for players who enjoy a more tactical and supportive playstyle, focused on diplomacy, compassion, and protecting the innocent.

Choosing the Best Sacred Oath for You

Choosing the best Sacred Oath for your Paladin depends on your desired playstyle, your character's personality, and the kind of campaign you're playing in. Consider the following factors when making your decision:

Playstyle: Do you prefer a front-line fighter, a supportive healer, a diplomatic negotiator, or a relentless avenger? Each oath caters to a different playstyle, so choose one that aligns with your preferences.
Character Alignment and Personality: Does your character adhere to a strict code of honor, embrace the beauty of nature, seek vengeance against evildoers, or believe in the power of redemption? Your character's personality should inform your choice of oath.
Campaign Setting and Theme: Is the campaign focused on fighting undead and fiends, exploring the wilderness, unraveling political conspiracies, or redeeming fallen souls? The themes of the campaign may make certain oaths more relevant or effective than others.
Party Composition: Consider the roles and abilities of your fellow party members. If your party lacks a dedicated healer, the Oath of Redemption might be a good choice. If you need a strong front-line fighter, the Oath of Devotion or Vengeance could be more suitable.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a Sacred Oath that not only complements your character's abilities but also enhances your roleplaying experience. Each oath offers a unique path for Paladins, allowing you to create a character that is both powerful and meaningful.

Multiclassing Options for Paladins

While the Paladin class is powerful on its own, multiclassing can open up new possibilities and enhance your character's capabilities. However, it's essential to choose your multiclass options carefully to ensure that they complement your Paladin's core features and playstyle. Here are some popular and effective multiclassing options for Paladins:

Paladin/Sorcerer

Combining the Paladin's martial prowess and divine magic with the Sorcerer's potent spellcasting can create a formidable character. The Sorcerer's spell slots can be used to fuel Divine Smite, allowing for devastating damage output. Additionally, the Sorcerer's metamagic abilities can enhance the Paladin's spells, making them more versatile and effective. This multiclass is particularly effective for Oath of Vengeance Paladins, who can use Sorcerer spells to augment their combat abilities.

Paladin/Warlock

A Paladin/Warlock multiclass can provide access to powerful spells and invocations, as well as a unique flavor combination. The Warlock's Eldritch Blast cantrip offers a reliable ranged attack option, while their pact magic spell slots recharge on a short rest, providing more flexibility than the Paladin's spell slots. This multiclass is well-suited for Oath of Vengeance or Oath of Redemption Paladins, who can use Warlock abilities to enhance their combat or diplomatic skills.

Paladin/Cleric

Multiclassing Paladin with Cleric creates a powerful and synergistic blend of divine abilities. Both classes share a strong connection to the divine, and their abilities often complement each other. Cleric spells can provide additional healing and support options, while the Paladin's martial prowess and Divine Smite enhance the Cleric's combat capabilities. This multiclass is particularly effective for Oath of Devotion or Oath of Redemption Paladins, who can benefit from the Cleric's healing and support spells.

Paladin/Bard

A Paladin/Bard multiclass combines martial prowess with charismatic spellcasting and support abilities. The Bard's inspiration dice can bolster the Paladin's combat skills, while their spells offer additional utility and control options. This multiclass is well-suited for Oath of the Ancients or Oath of Redemption Paladins, who can use Bard abilities to enhance their diplomatic skills and support their allies.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Sacred Oath is a crucial decision for any Paladin player in Dungeons and Dragons 5th Edition. Each oath offers a unique path, with its own tenets, features, and playstyle. Whether you choose the classic heroism of the Oath of Devotion, the natural connection of the Oath of the Ancients, the relentless pursuit of the Oath of Vengeance, or the compassionate diplomacy of the Oath of Redemption, your choice will shape your character's identity and capabilities. By carefully considering your desired playstyle, your character's personality, and the themes of the campaign, you can choose a Sacred Oath that not only complements your abilities but also enhances your roleplaying experience. Embrace the tenets of your oath, wield your divine powers with conviction, and become a true champion of your chosen path.

This comprehensive guide has provided you with the knowledge and insights needed to make an informed decision about your Paladin's Sacred Oath. Now, it's time to embark on your adventure and forge your legend as a Paladin of unparalleled valor and unwavering dedication. Whether you stand as a beacon of light, a protector of nature, a bringer of justice, or a harbinger of redemption, your Paladin will leave an indelible mark on the world.