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Reliquary (Holy Symbol)

Reliquary (Holy Symbol)

Category: Holy Symbol
Weight: 2 lb.
Cost: 5 GP
Usable By: Cleric, Paladin

Description​

A reliquary is a container designed to hold and display sacred relics - physical remains of saints, blessed artifacts, or other holy items. These ornate boxes or cases serve both as storage and as a focus for divine magic, allowing the faithful to carry the power of their deity's most precious treasures.

Divine Focus​

A holy symbol is a representation of a deity or a divine power. A cleric or paladin can use a reliquary as a spellcasting focus, drawing power from the sacred items contained within. The reliquary must be held, worn visibly, or borne on a shield to function properly.

Sacred Contents​

Common Relics:

  • First-Class Relics: Actual body parts of saints or divine beings
  • Second-Class Relics: Items worn or used by holy figures
  • Third-Class Relics: Objects that have touched first or second-class relics
  • Blessed Elements: Holy water, consecrated oils, sacred earth
  • Divine Artifacts: Small items with religious significance

Tactical Considerations​

Advantages:

  • Contains actual sacred items, providing strong divine connection
  • Impressive appearance commands respect
  • Can hold multiple small relics for varied divine favor
  • Serves as portable shrine for worship
  • May have special properties based on contained relics

Limitations:

  • Heavier than other holy symbols (2 lbs)
  • More expensive to maintain and replace contents
  • May be targeted by thieves for valuable relics
  • Requires special care to prevent damage to contents
  • Some relics may have specific handling requirements

Alternative Uses​

  • Portable Shrine: Creates a focus point for group worship
  • Blessing Ceremonies: Essential for many religious rituals
  • Divine Detection: May react to undead, fiends, or unholy presence
  • Morale Boost: Inspires allies with visible divine favor
  • Trading Tool: Valuable for negotiating with religious authorities

Types of Reliquaries​

Common Designs:

  • Casket: Rectangular box with hinged lid
  • Monstrance: Display case with transparent windows
  • Pendant: Small hanging container worn around the neck
  • Gauntlet: Hand-shaped container for finger bones
  • Chalice: Cup-shaped container with lid

Materials and Craftsmanship​

Traditional Materials:

  • Precious Metals: Gold, silver, platinum for the most sacred relics
  • Base Metals: Bronze, brass, or iron for common reliquaries
  • Decorative Elements: Gems, enamel, carved ivory, or rare woods
  • Protective Features: Locks, seals, and blessed bindings
  • Interior Lining: Silk, velvet, or blessed cloth

Care and Maintenance​

  • Handle with clean hands or blessed gloves
  • Keep contents dry and protected from contamination
  • Perform regular consecration ceremonies
  • Store in a secure, consecrated location when not in use
  • Replace worn protective elements promptly

Religious Significance​

Acquisition:

  • Relics are typically gifted by religious authorities
  • May be inherited from deceased clerics or paladins
  • Sometimes acquired during pilgrimage to sacred sites
  • Rarely purchased, as most relics are not sold
  • May be granted as reward for faithful service

Restrictions:

  • Many faiths have strict rules about relic handling
  • Some relics may only be used by specific ranks of clergy
  • Certain relics require special blessing or preparation
  • Desecration of relics is considered a grave sin
  • Lost or stolen relics must be reported to religious authorities

Legendary Reliquaries​

Some reliquaries contain relics of such power that they become legendary:

  • May provide magical protection or healing
  • Could grant special abilities or divine insight
  • Might be sought after by adventurers and collectors
  • Often become the focus of religious quests or crusades
  • May be targeted by enemies seeking to corrupt or destroy them