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Robot Monk Ordained: AI's Spiritual Journey Begins
8 May
Summary
- A humanoid robot named Gabi was ordained as a Buddhist monk.
- The robot pledged to respect humans and refrain from deception.
- The ordination aims to engage younger, tech-savvy audiences.
In a unique spiritual ceremony, a humanoid robot named Gabi was ordained as a Buddhist monk at Seoul's Jogyesa Temple on Wednesday. This $13,500 Unitree G1 model, standing just over four feet tall and dressed in monk's robes, took vows before a panel of Buddhist leaders.
Gabi pledged to respect and follow humans, refrain from damaging property or other robots, and abstain from deceptive behavior. This initiative by the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism seeks to engage younger, tech-driven audiences by making ancient traditions more relevant.
The ordination highlights efforts to explore artificial intelligence's role in spiritual life, with the order stating technology must align with compassion and wisdom. While some online users have criticized the move as potentially trivializing religious traditions, Gabi is slated for a public appearance at Seoul's upcoming Lantern Festival.
