Bestow Curse
3rd-level Necromancy
System Reference Document 5.2 (D&D 2024) · Content reviewed 2026-07-11
Bestow Curse is a 3rd-level necromancy spell in D&D 5e (2024). You touch a creature, which must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or become cursed for the duration. Until the curse ends, the target suffers one of the following effects of your choice: - Choose one ability. The target has Disadvantage on ability checks…
- Casting Time
- 1 action
- Range
- Touch
- Components
- V, S
- Duration
- Concentration, up to 1 minute
- Damage Type
- Necrotic
- Classes
- Bard, Cleric, Wizard
You touch a creature, which must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw or become cursed for the duration. Until the curse ends, the target suffers one of the following effects of your choice: - Choose one ability. The target has Disadvantage on ability checks and saving throws made with that ability. - The target has Disadvantage on attack rolls against you. - In combat, the target must succeed on a Wisdom saving throw at the start of each of its turns or be forced to take the Dodge action on that turn. - If you deal damage to the target with an attack roll or a spell, the target takes an extra 1d8 Necrotic damage.
Using a higher-level spell slot
If you cast this spell using a level 4 spell slot, you can maintain Concentration on it for up to 10 minutes. If you use a level 5+ spell slot, the spell doesn't require Concentration, and the duration becomes 8 hours (level 5-6 slot) or 24 hours (level 7-8 slot). If you use a level 9 spell slot, the spell lasts until dispelled.
Common questions
What level is Bestow Curse?
Bestow Curse is a 3rd-level necromancy spell in the 2024 D&D rules.
What is the casting time of Bestow Curse?
Bestow Curse has a casting time of 1 action, with a range of Touch.
Does Bestow Curse require concentration?
Yes. Bestow Curse requires concentration, lasting 1 minute.