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Message: <blockquote data-quote="DreadPirateMurphy" data-source="post: 2725162" data-attributes="member: 20715">Lots of interesting perspectives.There is an underlying assumption in the argument on opportunity costs that the cleric is actively using their magic to accomplish various tasks.  This is possible, but not guaranteed.  If I still have spells left at the end of the day, aren't I just wasting that potential (especially with spontaneous healing)?An interesting aspect of polytheism I've picked up from watching Rome on HBO:  people tend to make offerings to lots of different gods under different circumstances.  A metropolis probably has enough people to support many gods.  Smaller communities either wouldn't have representatives or would have a more focused selection.  Organized religion is something of an urban affair anyway, given the need for specialized roles for the clergy.  Of course, D&D frequently features temples in smaller communities for convenience (and magic could be the thing that lowers the minimum population necessary to support a temple).The idea of taxing transients makes wonderful sense...it is the same logic used in tolls and entry fees.  It is also part of the logic behind modern "commuter" taxes.  Taxing folks who don't vote is always more palatable.Having said that, in a fantasy world where the wishes of the gods are basically clear (and if they are unclear, you can just go ASK for clarification), one would think that the whole point of granting spells to clerics is to have them promote a god's agenda in the mortal realm.  I would expect the cleric of the god of agriculture to support local farmers gratis, and I would expect a healing order to provide minor healing spells (maybe up to 3rd level, like a potion) for free or for a nominal fee.  Also, anybody contributing greatly to the faith should expect assistance.  If I am a cleric or paladin of Pelor, I should be able to expect assistance in a temple of Pelor.These freebies aren't really free, of course.  Wealthy individuals are expected to donate, but it may be more subtle than extorting money in exchange for healing.  A supporter of the temple might be unwilling to help the PCs until they make a suitable donation, for example.  The priest would NEVER suggest such a thing, but he isn't above mentioning the lack of funds to the supporter in idle conversation...</blockquote>

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