Scientists from Kyoto University in Japan have introduced Buddharoid, an innovative humanoid robot designed to engage with Buddhist scriptures and rituals. The robot made its debut at a temple event, performing traditional hand gestures and providing responses akin to those of a spiritual priest. Fueling its capabilities is an advanced AI chatbot, “BuddhaBot-Plus,” developed on the framework of OpenAI’s ChatGPT. This initiative, led by Seiji Kumagai at Kyoto University’s Institute for the Future of Human Society, merges sophisticated language models with a standard humanoid platform, allowing Buddharoid to speak, move, and perform customary prayer postures within temple settings.
During its demonstration, Buddharoid, dressed in grey robes, impressively addressed attendees with gestures that mirrored human respect, such as bowing and joining hands in prayer. Utilizing Buddhist scriptures to field a variety of questions, the robot showcased its ability to provide guidance on personal and societal concerns. When queried by Professor Seiji Kumagai, who also serves as a monk, about personal relationships, Buddharoid offered the sage advice, “It will improve if you reflect on your closeness with them and maintain an inner balance.” Its soothing baritone resonated as it communicated with a journalist from national broadcaster NHK.
Buddharoid is not an isolated development; it follows in the footsteps of Mindar, a robotic priest introduced in 2019 at the historic Kodai-ji Temple in Kyoto. Like Buddharoid, Mindar delivers sermons, answers spiritual inquiries using Buddhist texts, and conducts rituals, all while sporting a human-like visage crafted from aluminum and silicone on a commercial robotic base.
The intersection of robotics and spirituality is particularly relevant given Japan’s aging population and urban decline, which have left many temples struggling with dwindling followers, financial resources, and a shortage of monks. Humanoid robots like Buddharoid and Mindar are emerging as vital solutions, capable of delivering sermons, guiding rituals, and preserving engagement within these communities. This technological integration not only helps sustain religious practices but also ensures that temple operations can continue despite demographic shifts and resource challenges faced globally.
Looking ahead, the integration of humanoid robots like Buddharoid signifies a potential transformation in religious practices. Experts anticipate that AI humanoid robots may increasingly assist with or even conduct rituals traditionally performed by human priests, heralding a paradigm shift in religious culture. This innovative approach holds the promise of infusing new life into spiritual practices while addressing the pressing needs of modern communities.