hey it's me again
I need to know if the divine focus needs a hand to be held in.
reasons for
1 almost every picture of the pathfinder cleric has the HS in hand
2 feats and abilities that allow weapons and shields to be crafted as HS
3 traits that allow divine "birthmarks " so you are never without
reasons against
1 traits that allow divine "birthmarks " so you are never without
2 like a components pouch , have it on you and your good
3 I can't find any rule reference to validate the use of a hand for a HS
just for the record , I am of the school where the item must be a DF not just a picture or replica of faith.
I mean its a "focus " right ?
Are we talking about spells, or channeling?
To cast a spell, you must be able to speak (if the spell has a verbal component), gesture (if it has a somatic component), and manipulate the material components or focus (if any).
So the question is: does "manipulation" involve hands, or can you just wiggle your birth-marked behind? I'd say you need a hand, but that can be the same hand that performs the somatic component.
As for channelling, the character "must be able to present her holy symbol to use this ability." It only says you must be able to do so, not actually do it. Which is pretty weird, but at least you can leave that birth-marked butt covered up.
My own interpretation is that "manipulate" means just what it means, to literally "handle" the components or the focus.
Likewise, I think to "present" something is to have it in hand.