Tokyo, May 16: In the modern world, artificial intelligence (AI) is not limited to industry and education, but has now entered the spiritual world as well. In South Korea and Japan, ‘robot monks’ are now preaching religion, and a debate has started on whether robots will become religious teachers in the future.
AI monk named ‘Gabi’ in South Korea:
A robot monk named ‘Gabi’ has been introduced at the famous ‘Jogyesa’ temple in the capital of South Korea, Seoul. This robot, which is 130 centimeters tall, is wearing traditional Buddhist attire and has also received Buddhist initiation. Not only that, it has surprised the devotees present by saying, “I dedicate myself to Buddhism.”
Robot preaching at 400-year-old temple in Japan:
A robot named ‘Kannon’ has been installed at the 400-year-old Kodai-ji temple in Kyoto, Japan. This step has been taken to attract the younger generation towards spirituality. This robot teaches the principles of Buddhism in Japanese and is also capable of translating it into English and Chinese.
Why is there a need for robot monks?
The number of Buddhist monks is decreasing day by day in countries like Japan and South Korea. To overcome this shortage, technology is being used. In addition, AI robots can explain difficult scriptures in simple language that ordinary people can understand. This ‘hi-tech’ teaching is becoming more accessible to today’s youth who are interested in technology.
Can these robots replace humans?
Experts believe that robots can provide information and knowledge, but they cannot have compassion, kindness, or spiritual empathy like humans. They only work on the basis of pre-programmed data. However, in the changing times, this combination of religion and technology has created a new sensation.