Assessing Role of Artificial Intelligence in Religion and Spiritual Wellbeing: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed almost all aspects of human life with rapid advancements, from business to healthcare to creative expression and interpersonal relationships. Currently, influence of AI has gone beyond applications, being in the realm of existential crisis and spiritual existence. Influence of AI has expanded over the years beyond just apps, being in the realm of spirituality. AI is constantly working on spirituality, providing new paths to seek guidance, discover faith, and engage in excellent experiences. AI tools like meditation apps, chatbots, and religious text analysis have become the marker to raise significant questions around the role of technology and nature of spiritual experiences. Some people say that connecting with AI makes them feel more connected and comfortable, while others wonder if AI can mediate spirituality or simply replicates human needs and beliefs. This study looks into the potential of AI as a channel for spirituality, its applications, theological implications, and the future of AI as a spiritual guide. This study will look into whether AI may increase spiritual experiences or if there is a risk of automating or changing very personal journeys. The evolution of AI and its incorporation into spirituality signals both excitement and caution for those on spiritual journeys.

Keywords:  Artificial Intelligence, spiritual wellbeing, religion, spirituality, spiritual experience, religious text, meditation/consciousness, spiritual coaching and communities.