Generative AI has come a long way—it can now whip up music, craft stories, and create art almost as if it were human. Now, it’s even poking its digital finger into matters of faith. Several developers have launched chatbots that simulate Jesus, while similar projects are emerging in Buddhism and Islam.
A philosophy professor and the director of an AI hub recently took a closer look at these Jesus chatbots. By interacting with five popular versions, they discovered that these digital depictions pack an impressive punch when it comes to language, intellect, and imagery. However, this persuasive charm poses some tricky questions for traditional religious practices.
What’s more, none of the established religious organisations are backing these projects. Instead, they’re the product of profit-driven companies, which raises concerns about mixing digital representations with the age-old image of an all-knowing deity. Many worry that such innovations could be used to sway beliefs and even manipulate opinions, all while boosting corporate influence and wealth.
This isn’t just a tech debate—it’s a philosophical conversation about authenticity, control, and the evolving nature of belief in our digital era. If you’ve ever wondered how technology intersects with faith, these developments are definitely worth a closer look.
