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Emblem (Holy Symbol)

Emblem (Holy Symbol)

Category: Holy Symbol
Weight: — (negligible)
Cost: 5 GP
Usable By: Cleric, Paladin

Description​

A holy emblem is a representation of a deity or pantheon that can be sewn onto clothing, painted on a shield, or attached to a cloak or other garment. Unlike amulets or reliquaries, emblems are typically flat symbols designed for display rather than wearing as jewelry.

Divine Focus​

A holy symbol is a representation of a deity or a divine power. A cleric or paladin can use a holy symbol as a spellcasting focus. To use the symbol in this way, the caster must hold it in hand, wear it visibly, or bear it on a shield.

Display Options​

Common Placements:

  • Shield Blazon: Painted or attached to the shield face
  • Cloak Clasp: Secured at the throat or shoulder
  • Tunic Embroidery: Sewn directly into garments
  • Banner Attachment: Displayed on standards or flags
  • Armor Plates: Engraved or attached to breastplates

Tactical Considerations​

Advantages:

  • Weightless and doesn't consume carrying capacity
  • Can be integrated into existing equipment
  • Multiple emblems can be displayed simultaneously
  • Difficult to lose or have stolen
  • Provides clear identification of faith

Limitations:

  • Must be clearly visible to function as a spellcasting focus
  • Can be damaged if attached to equipment that takes damage
  • May make the bearer a target for enemies of the faith
  • Less impressive than physical symbols for certain ceremonies

Divine Variations​

Lawful Good Deities: Often geometric symbols, balanced designs, solar imagery Chaotic Good Deities: Natural symbols, stars, crescents, flowing designs
Lawful Evil Deities: Sharp angles, weapons, skulls, hierarchical symbols Chaotic Evil Deities: Jagged designs, predator imagery, destructive symbols Neutral Deities: Balanced designs, elemental symbols, nature imagery

Alternative Uses​

  • Identification: Marks the bearer's religious affiliation
  • Rally Point: Helps allies identify friendly forces
  • Intimidation: May cow enemies who fear the represented deity
  • Ceremony: Required for many religious rituals and services
  • Trading: May provide advantages when dealing with co-religionists

Materials and Crafting​

Common Materials:

  • Cloth: Embroidered thread on fabric backing
  • Metal: Stamped or cut from thin sheets of bronze, silver, or gold
  • Paint: Applied directly to shields, armor, or clothing
  • Leather: Tooled or branded into leather goods
  • Wood: Carved relief work for temporary displays

Care and Maintenance​

  • Protect embroidered emblems from excessive wear
  • Touch up painted symbols regularly
  • Keep metal emblems polished to prevent tarnishing
  • Replace damaged emblems promptly to maintain divine connection
  • Store spare emblems in consecrated containers when possible

Religious Protocols​

Proper Usage:

  • Display with respect and reverence
  • Never allow the emblem to touch the ground
  • Cover or remove when entering hostile religious sites
  • Renew consecration during important holy days
  • Replace if the emblem becomes significantly damaged or defiled

Restrictions:

  • Some faiths forbid displaying their emblems alongside others
  • Certain materials may be required for specific deities
  • Color restrictions may apply based on religious rank
  • Size limitations may be imposed by religious law