WithstandHow it works & interactions with other cards

What it Does

Withstand is a utility spell that sets up a 'prevention shield' on any target—a creature, a player, or a planeswalker. It creates a lingering effect that waits for the next time damage would be dealt to that target within the current turn. Additionally, it immediately replaces itself in your hand by letting you draw a card upon resolution.

Resolution Step by Step

First, you cast Withstand by paying its mana cost and choosing a legal target. When the spell resolves, it does two things in order: it establishes the prevention effect for the next 3 damage that target would receive this turn, and then you draw a card. It is important to note that the card draw happens immediately, even if no damage is being dealt at that exact moment.

Common Mistakes

A frequent misconception is that you only draw the card when the damage is actually prevented. Per official rulings, the draw occurs during the resolution of Withstand, not later. Another error is thinking this can stop destruction effects; it only prevents damage. If a target is affected by an effect that says 'destroy' or if its toughness is reduced to zero by non-damage effects, Withstand will not save it.

When to Play It

The best time to use Withstand is during the combat phase or in response to a burn spell. Since it creates a shield that lasts the entire turn, you can cast it proactively if you anticipate a struggle. Because it draws a card, it is also a low-risk way to cycle through your deck if you have extra mana and a safe target.

Interaction examples

Mitigating Damage

If an opponent casts a spell intended to deal 3 damage to you, you cast Withstand targeting yourself. Withstand resolves, you draw a card, and the prevention shield is active. When the opponent's spell resolves, the 3 damage is reduced to 0.

Protection vs. Destruction

Generous Gift

If an opponent targets your creature with Generous Gift, casting Withstand will not save it. Generous Gift says 'Destroy target permanent,' which is not damage. Your creature will be destroyed, though you will still draw a card from Withstand's resolution.

Layering Defenses

Teferi's Protection

If you have already cast Teferi's Protection, your life total cannot change. However, if you target yourself with Withstand afterward, Withstand will still resolve and you will draw a card. While the damage prevention is largely redundant since your life total is locked, the card draw remains a valid way to dig for more answers.