Should AI be used to create personalised religious content?

Written by: Krizia Silvestri

At Otermans Institute we like to explore the intersection of innovation and society, and we are fascinated by the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to disrupt even the most established institutions.

Religion, with its emphasis on tradition and human connection, might seem an unlikely candidate for an AI revolution. However, the question of AI-generated religious content — think personalised prayers, interactive hymns, even virtual Imams — is no longer science fiction.

It’s a question demanding serious consideration. We also launched a poll on LinkedIn about this fascinating topic.

The allure of AI-powered religious tools is undeniable. Imagine an app that crafts a morning prayer reflecting on your recent challenges, offering solace tailored to your specific needs. Or consider AI-generated hymns that adapt to the size and mood of a congregation, fostering a more dynamic worship experience. For those facing language barriers or learning difficulties, AI could unlock a world of religious participation previously inaccessible.

But before we envision a future of bespoke blessings delivered by algorithms, some critical considerations arise.

Authenticity is a major concern. Can a machine truly capture the essence of faith, born of human experience and historical context? Can AI-generated prayers ever evoke the raw power of genuine human expression? There’s a risk of religious content becoming formulaic, a hollow echo of true spiritual connection.

Furthermore, the potential for manipulation lurks within the algorithms themselves. Trained on data sets that can reflect existing biases, AI could inadvertently generate religious content that reinforces social or theological divisions. Imagine an AI-powered sermon subtly promoting a particular political agenda under the guise of religious teaching.

The question of authority also comes into play. Religious institutions have traditionally held the mantle of interpreting scriptures and guiding spiritual practices. Could reliance on AI erode their role, leading to a homogenisation of faith traditions? Additionally, the potential for commercialisation casts a shadow.

AI-powered religious apps might become monetised, with personalised content locked behind paywalls. This could create a tiered system of faith, where access to deeper spiritual experiences is determined by wealth.

The path forward requires a thoughtful and balanced approach. Transparency is key. The development and implementation of AI-powered religious tools should be a collaborative effort, involving theologians, religious leaders, and the broader community. Human oversight remains paramount. AI should be seen as a tool to enhance, not replace, human interaction with the divine. Religious leaders should guide the development and use of AI to ensure it aligns with their specific tradition’s values.

Ultimately, AI can be a powerful tool for engagement and accessibility in the realm of religion. However, it should be used with caution, respecting the authority of religious institutions, fostering genuine spiritual connection, and ensuring the continued relevance of tradition in a high-tech world. The question is not whether AI can be used to personalise religious experiences, but how we can use it responsibly to deepen our connections to the divine. After all, faith is a deeply personal journey, and AI, used wisely, could become a valuable companion on that path.

The Algorithm and the Altar: Can AI Personalise Your Prayers?

Real-World Examples

In 2017, Saudi Arabia introduced “Sahl,” an AI-powered virtual Imam, to assist pilgrims during the Hajj.

Similarly, Tel Aviv University’s Jewish prayer chatbot allows users to input prayer requests and receive personalised prayers in return. These initiatives offer valuable support for those unable to attend physical services or struggling to articulate their own prayers.

In 2019, Kodaiji temple in Japan introduced an AI-equipped android named Mindar, tasked with delivering Buddhist teachings. Mindar can personalise its teaching to the needs and queries of temple visitors.

On the educational front, many religious institutions are utilising AI to create interactive learning tools for scripture study and theological exploration. Imagine an app that tailors Bible study questions to your individual understanding or a website that recommends relevant religious texts based on your interests. These tools personalise the learning experience, catering to different learning styles and fostering deeper engagement with religious texts.

AI is also proving its worth in accessibility applications. Apps can translate sermons or prayers into sign language in real-time, while others can adjust audio descriptions for visually impaired worshippers. These advancements ensure inclusivity within religious communities, allowing everyone to participate fully in their faith practices.

Navigating the Ethical Landscape: Striking a Balance

While these applications showcase the potential of AI for good within religious communities, there are ethical considerations we can’t ignore. The concerns about authenticity, manipulation, and control remain relevant.

As a company who champions responsible innovation, we believe open dialogue is crucial.

Religious institutions must be transparent about data privacy practices within AI-powered applications. Individuals should have control over their data and be able to opt-out of its use if they wish.

Furthermore, the issue of algorithmic bias demands vigilance. AI algorithms can reflect the biases present in their training data. Religious institutions need to be aware of this potential and actively seek diverse datasets to ensure AI-generated content is inclusive and representative. Perhaps most importantly, the human element must be preserved.

Beyond Personalisation: AI and the Wider Religious Landscape

While personalised prayers and sermons steal the headlines, the impact of AI extends far beyond individual experiences. Here are some intriguing possibilities:

• AI-powered Interfaith Dialogue: Imagine a virtual platform that facilitates respectful dialogue between different faiths. AI could translate theological concepts in real-time, fostering understanding and potentially bridging historical divides.
• Religious Heritage Preservation: AI can assist in the preservation of religious artefacts and historical sites. Advanced scanning technology can create detailed digital replicas, allowing for wider access and safeguarding cultural heritage for future generations.
• AI-driven Religious Research: AI can analyse vast amounts of religious texts and data, uncovering hidden patterns and connections that might elude human scholars. This could lead to new insights into religious history, theology, and philosophy.

The Human Touch: The Irreplaceable Role of Faith Leaders

Despite the potential of AI, it’s crucial to remember that technology cannot replace the human connection at the heart of religious practice. Here’s where faith leaders might come in:

• Guiding AI Development: Religious leaders should be actively involved in shaping the development and use of AI for religious purposes. They can ensure that AI tools align with their faith’s core values and traditions.
• Maintaining the Human Element: AI shouldn’t replace the role of religious leaders in offering spiritual guidance, leading services, and fostering a sense of community. Their role as mentors, interpreters, and community builders remains essential in the age of AI.

The Final Word: A Collaborative Future for Faith and Technology

The relationship between AI and religion is a complex one, brimming with both challenges and opportunities. However, one thing is clear: the future of faith won’t be written solely by religious leaders. It will be a collaborative effort, requiring open dialogue, responsible development practices, and a commitment to upholding the core values of religious traditions.

We are excited by the potential of AI to make religious experiences more accessible, engaging, and personalised. But as a team who values the human experience, we believe the future of faith lies not in algorithms alone, but in the enduring power of human connection, spiritual growth, and the quest for meaning in a world increasingly shaped by technology.