Smite and Arrows of Justice
Asked by WalzY 12 years ago
So during combat, after blockers have been declared, how do Smite and Arrows of Justice work?
Assuming I'm blocking using a 1/1 vs a 4/4. I then play Smite or Arrows of Justice and target the 4/4. Does the target 4/4 creature die before dealing any damage to my 1/1? or does my 1/1 die as well.
I've had an even split in what people think when asking friends. Some think because the text says 'blocked' on Smite , that the blocking creature will receive damage, and the same for Arrows of Justice because it says 'blocking'. Some think Smite means that the blocker will receive the damage but with Arrows of Justice the blocker won't. Some think no damage is received by the blocker for either. Is the text 'blocked' or 'blocking' any different?
I'm very confused about this.
If Smite or Arrows of Justice are played before the combat damage phase they will die as a state based action before the damage phase and therefore are no longer around to deal any damage and your 1/1 will live.
February 15, 2013 4:40 a.m.
Mtg steps, untapped, upkeep, draws, main phase1, combat step, attackers, declare blockers, damage resolution, main phase 2, end step. It would occure between blockers and damage reserlution so your creature would live and the others would die.
February 15, 2013 5 a.m.
FYI You could however wait until after the damage has been dealt if you for whatever reason wanted to and still use the spells after your creature has been killed. Just as long as it is still the Combat step and you don't let it go to the second main phase.
Kirtanian says... Accepted answer #1
A creature becomes "blocked" as soon as a creature is declared as a blocker during the "declare blockers step." Damage is not dealt until the "combat damage step." Since both the cards you names are instants, they may be used after blockers have been declared but before combat damage is dealt.
Your 1/1 blocker will survive and in both cases the 4/4 blocked attacker will die (unless there are any other factors influencing the combat.)
If you need me to I will find and post the official ruling from the comprehensive rulebook to show your friends.
February 15, 2013 4:36 a.m.