Artificial intelligence is steadily entering the realm of faith, offering digital devotion through apps and chatbots that claim to represent biblical figures like Jesus, Mary, and the apostles. Programs such as Text With Jesus have attracted thousands of users seeking quick spiritual answers, while others, like Father Justin from Catholic Answers, sparked backlash for appearing to mimic clergy. Developers say their goal is to educate, not replace human ministry—but critics argue these virtual faith tools cross sacred lines. The technology’s increasing sophistication, with AI models able to convincingly “stay in character,” blurs the boundary between reverence and simulation.

Across religions, AI is being woven into worship, from Islam’s Deen Buddy to Hinduism’s Vedas AI and AI Buddha for Buddhism. Some clergy see these as harmless aids for study, but others warn they rob faith of its heart—the human connection. Rabbi Gilah Langner said AI cannot replace “organic connection to a living tradition,” and many believers agree that true spiritual understanding comes through fellowship, not algorithms. Even experiments like a Texas pastor’s AI-generated sermon drew curiosity but ultimately fell flat, missing “the heart and spirit” of real worship. As digital prophets rise, the question grows louder: will technology help people draw nearer to God—or simply create virtual idols in His image?

SOURCE: Yahoo News