Summary
Japanese researchers are investigating the integration of Artificial Intelligence into religious practices, exemplified by the unveiling of an AI-controlled humanoid robot monk named 'Buddharoid' at a temple in Kyoto. Developed by Kyoto University, Buddharoid can recite Buddhist teachings, move, and respond to queries by referencing scriptures, even offering advice on mental well-being. This innovation aims to address the declining number of human monks in Japan's aging population and simultaneously raises complex questions about the role of technology in spirituality.