Message
You point your finger toward a creature within range and whisper a message. The target (and only the target) hears the message and can reply in a whisper that only you can hear. You can cast this spell through solid objects if you are familiar with the target and know it is beyond the barrier. Magical silence, 1 foot of stone, 1 inch of common metal, a thin sheet of lead, or 3 feet of wood blocks the spell. The spell doesn't have to follow a straight line and can travel freely around corners or through openings.
At a Glance
Level
Cantrip
School
Transmutation
Casting Time
1 action
Range
120 feet
Duration
1 round
Concentration
No
How Message Works
| Casting Time | 1 action |
|---|---|
| Range | 120 feet |
| Components | V, S, M (a short piece of copper wire) |
| Duration | 1 round |
Available to:
BardSorcererWizard
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Thinking the message is telepathic - it's a whisper that can be heard if someone is listening closely
Common Mistake
Not enforcing the barrier restrictions
Common Mistake
Forgetting the target can choose to reply or ignore the message
Common Mistake
Assuming you can message anyone - you must be able to see them or know they're behind a barrier
DM Tips
DM Tip
Great for stealth coordination and secret communication
DM Tip
Consider having enemies with good Perception notice the whispering
DM Tip
The spell enables creative tactical planning during combat
DM Tip
Since it's a cantrip, players will use this frequently - don't slow down play adjudicating it
Sources & Further Reading
- Message — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD text
- Message — Roll20 Compendium — Structured reference
- Message — D&D Beyond — Official digital reference