First, a semi-ranty-ish question: Is there any reason behind the ruling that a holy symbol can be made of wood (weighing nothing), or silver (which means it suddeny gains weight; one pound to be precise).
Hmm... so if I don't want to take the El-Cheapo variant, I get stuck with a lodestone around my neck (last time I checked, pendants were considerably lighter than a pound... and if I need something dramatically appropriate to shove in evil's face, a wooden thingie isn't exactly weightless, either).
Next question: Since (as least from what I read) engravings on your shield or armor, holy weapons, certain tattoos and birthmarks (as per the trait) all qualify as 'holy symbols', does the symbol have to be openly visible while I use it? (Which would put quite some limits on the applicable locations of a tattoo). Will the symbol shine with power when used as a focus? (Can't find a rules entry about that, though I'd consider the visualy to be rather fitting, I must admit)
So many questions...
I think it has to be visable but not presented.
does the symbol have to be openly visible while I use it?
Use it as a Divine Focus for a spell? Nope. Use it to channel energy? Yep.
-edit- except when stated otherwise, such as Arrow of Law, which would be pretty strange to have shooting out of your pants.
does the symbol have to be openly visible while I use it?Use it as a Divine Focus for a spell? Nope. Use it to channel energy? Yep.
Don't forget against vampires. It must be strongly presented to ward off vampires.
OP: A lot of this is flavor and depends on the GM and the campaign he is running.
The rules don't completely address what can qualify as a holy symbol. I've seen games run where only the two items called 'holy symbol' qualify. I've seen other games where any item can be marked with a 'holy symbol.' And I've even seen others were only certain items can be 'holy symbols' depending on the god (e.g. a shield for a goddess with the defense domain, a sword for a god of law whose symbol is a sword, but not vice versa). Personally, I like this as it fits well with the line about being an item of spiritual significance and not just any knick-knack stamped with a logo.
Most games I've been in is that the holy symbol must be visible to be used. I guess the gods don't like to be hidden when you invoke their power. However, there are no rules that explicitly say this.