False Life

Level & School
1st-level necromancy
Casting Time
Action
Range
Self
Components
V, S, M (a drop of alcohol)
Duration
Instantaneous
Classes
Sorcerer, Wizard

You gain 2d4 + 4 Temporary Hit Points.

Using a Higher-Level Spell Slot. You gain 5 additional Temporary Hit Points for each spell slot level above 1.

Level & School
1st-level necromancy
Casting Time
Action
Range
Self
Components
V, S, M (a small amount of alcohol or distilled spirits)
Duration
1 hour
Classes
Sorcerer, Wizard

Bolstering yourself with a necromantic facsimile of life, you gain 1d4 + 4 temporary hit points for the duration.

Using a Higher-Level Spell Slot. When you cast this spell using a spell slot of 2nd level or higher, you gain 5 additional temporary hit points for each slot level above 1st.

False Life 5.5e 2024 vs. 5e 2014 edition differences

The 2024 version changes the duration from 1 hour to instantaneous, and increases the base temporary hit points from 1d4 + 4 to 2d4 + 4. The higher-level slot benefit remains the same, but the total temporary hit points are higher in 2024.

Spells similar to False Life

  • Shield of Faith

    Both provide temporary benefits to the caster but in different forms.
  • Heroism

    Both grant temporary hit points to enhance survivability, albeit in different ways.
  • Cure Wounds

    Both spells are healing-oriented, but Cure Wounds restores actual hit points rather than temporary ones.
  • Healing Word

    Both provide healing effects, with Healing Word allowing for a more versatile healing in combat.
  • Armor of Agathys

    Both grant temporary hit points, with Armor of Agathys also providing a damage return mechanic.

False Life is featured in