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Can the Message cantrip be used to communicate with a sentient object?

I just want some clarification, since my DM gave me a sentient staff and my character only really communicates through the message cantrip.

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    – V2Blast
    Commented Oct 5, 2019 at 3:26

1 Answer 1

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The Message cantrip must target a creature

This is spelled out in the spell's description (emphasis mine):

You point your finger toward a creature within range and whisper a message. The target (and only the target) hears the message and can reply in a whisper that only you can hear.

A magic item (even a sentient one) is not considered a creature but an object. You can see these related questions for details on the distinction:

Therefore, the Message cantrip can't be used to communicate with a sentient item.

Other ways to communicate with sentient magic items

The DMG has a section on sentient magic items. This section includes tables with the kinds of ways a sentient magic item might be able to communicate and the kind of senses it has which allow someone to communicate with it.

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