D&D 5E Create or Destroy Water spell ruling

[Antz7766]

Specifically, the destroy part of the spell.

Destroy Water. You destroy up to 10 gallons of water in an open container within range...

One of my players just asked if he can just kill with this spell, since the majority of most creature's body is filled with water anyways. I ruled that since A) a creature is not a container, and B) a creature is definitely not open (at least in the beginning anyways), he cannot just outright kill every humanoid he comes across with this.

What are your thoughts?

 

[steeldragons]

I think you made the right call.

There is nothing in this spell, never has been, to indicate that it is for this kind of attack. Damaging water elementals, sure thing. I'd let it work rto damage ice creatures...like made of actual ice, not just cold dwelling. Desiccating humanoids, no.

Horrid Wilting, on the other hand...bwa ha ha.

 

[Tormyr]

You are correct. A creature is not an open container. Open containers include a bucket, a trough, a tub, a basin....

 

[Nebulous]

you were 100% correct.

 

[BigVanVader]

What if you stab someone in the stomach first, and make them open?

 

[steeldragons]

What if you stab someone in the stomach first, and make them open?

Still no.

 

[BigVanVader]

What if you stab someone in the gut, then pour water in the wound so it mixed with their blood and stuff?

 

[SilverfireSage]

What if you stab someone in the gut, then pour water in the wound so it mixed with their blood and stuff?

You would just destroy the water you just poured in there? If the purpose was to kill them, wouldn't the stab in the gut be effective enough?

 

[steeldragons]

What if you stab someone in the gut, then pour water in the wound so it mixed with their blood and stuff?

Hahaha. Cute.

Still no.

 

[BigVanVader]

What if you then screw in a lock system into the wound, so that it becomes a container?