Religious leaders debate going to church in the metaverse

As a researcher with a background in religious studies and technology, I find the intersection of these two fields fascinating. The adoption of metaverse, Web3, spatial computing, and artificial intelligence technologies by religious practitioners around the world is an intriguing development that warrants further exploration.

As a researcher studying the evolution of media and its impact on religious practices, I’ve noticed an intriguing shift in how people connect with their faith as technology advances. In the early days of radio and television, religious programming was a staple, reaching homes around the world. Now, as we move away from traditional 2D screens and audio broadcasts, I’m observing a trend among religious practitioners to explore new technologies like metaverse, Web3, spatial computing, and artificial intelligence. These innovative tools are becoming conduits for deepening spiritual connections in a more immersive and interactive way.

I acknowledge that despite the advancements in technology, there are voices expressing concerns about potential risks. Faith leaders ponder over the necessity of embracing modern technological trends, while a vast population of traditional religious adherents remains uncertain and looks up to spiritual authorities for direction.

Professor Sreevas Sahasranamam of the University of Glasgow shared his views on the beneficial aspects of a metaverse for Hindu practitioners in an article published in Swarajya magazine.

“Imagine getting Geetopadesha straight from Lord Krishna. No, I am not talking about being on a Sci-Fi time machine to take me back in time to the Kurukshetra war. Rather, I am talking about being in my living room, donning the role of Arjuna, seeking answers to my internal battles through Geetopadesha from Lord Krishna’s avatar on a Ray-Ban Meta glass.”

From a researcher’s perspective, I find it intriguing how the immersive nature of the metaverse, particularly when accessed via virtual reality, can serve as a bridge that brings individuals closer to the sacred texts and narratives of their respective faiths.

As a crypto investor and explorer of new technologies, I’ve come across the intriguing concept of utilizing the metaverse for meditative practices proposed by Sahasranamam. Instead of merely reading about it, I’d like to share my perspective.

The metaverse may not hold the same level of excitement for everyone as a religious tool. According to Gavin Ortlund and Jay Kim, two theologians and Christian pastors based in the US, this technology could complement the existing fellowship model. However, they emphasized that it should not be seen as a substitute for physical churches.

In their latest video conversation, Kim raised the question if the concept of “a church within the metaverse” seemed contradictory.

The duo’s main objection appears to be the digital/virtual nature of the metaverse. Per Ortlund:

“So, baptism and the Lord’s Supper, and those are physical acts, a church is irreducibly physical, you know, you need physical bodies for church because you have to have people there to get into the water or to eat the bread and wine. And so that’s just one example of where something gets lost if you’re moving away from face to face, bodily contact.”

As a crypto investor, I’ve noticed an intriguing contrast in perspectives between the Catholic Church in Rome and the broader tech community. While they have experimented with various metaverse technologies such as Web3, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and metaverse platforms over the past few years, their current leader, Pope Francis, maintains a cautious stance towards these future-focused innovations.

As a crypto investor following the latest news from CryptoMoon, I’ve learned that the Pope has expressed concerns about the advent of the artificial intelligence (AI) era. In his own words, he warned us about the potential dangers and challenges this technological shift might bring. Let’s stay informed and prepare accordingly while keeping an eye on how AI developments may impact the crypto market.

“There is the substantial risk of disproportionate benefit for the few at the price of the impoverishment of many.”

He strongly recommends building a robust moral and legal framework to protect against the potential dangers and existential risks posed by AI, while acknowledging the positive aspects of technology when used ethically.

2024-05-12 20:47

Read More