Japanese researchers have unveiled an innovative robot monk equipped with AI, designed to offer spiritual guidance and potentially alleviate shortages of human counterparts. Trained on even the most esoteric Buddhist scriptures, this diminutive two-legged humanoid named “Buddharoid” can dispense sensitive advice that some might feel reluctant to share with real humans.
Buddharoid’s capabilities extend beyond mere advice-giving; it also offers a sense of presence at religious sanctuaries alongside voice communications. University of Kyoto professors claim the machine could someday assist or even replace some traditional religious rituals conducted by human monks. The team, led by Seiji Kumagai, has developed AI chatbots such as Buddha Bot and a catechism bot.
For its latest creation, Kumaigai used his updated “BuddhaBotPlus” on a Chinese-made “Unitree G1” humanoid robot. On a recent media presentation at a temple, the humanoid was seen without a visible face, dressed in a simple grey garment. It held its gloved hands together in prayer and walked around, engaging with reporters.
One of these interactions involved a young local journalist who confessed to thinking too much. In soothing tones from national broadcaster NHK, the robot advised: “Buddhism teaches that it is important not to blindly follow one’s thoughts or rush into things.” It offered advice on calming the mind and letting go of thought itself.
Religious AI chatbots are already popular tools across major faiths worldwide, used by millions. Kyoto has a non-AI android called Mindar that delivers sermons, while Germany featured a robot with a touchscreen and glowing hands in 2017, which bestowed blessings in five languages.
Buddharoid’s integration of AI and robotics is groundbreaking—providing spiritual counsel alongside human-like physical movements. The university anticipates ethical discussions about the proper use of such tools in religious settings. As Japan’s shrinking population tightens the labour market, these humanoid robots could take on some tasks traditionally performed by human priests.
“AI humanoid robots are expected to be utilised in the future for assisting with or performing traditional rituals conducted by human priests,” the university stated. This development signals a potential paradigm shift in religious culture.