The Bible and AI
What does the Bible have to say about artificial intelligence?
The Bible does not mention "artificial intelligence" directly, as it is a modern concept. However, biblical scholars and theologians apply timeless scriptural principles to understand and evaluate this new technology, primarily drawing on themes related to creation, human nature, stewardship, wisdom, and idolatry.
Here are the key principles and relevant biblical themes often discussed in relation to AI:
1. Human Creativity as the Image of God
Genesis 1:26-27 states that humanity is created in God's image, which includes the capacity for creativity, design, and intelligence.
The ability to develop sophisticated technology like AI is seen as an expression of this God-given creativity and intelligence.
Exodus 31:2-5 highlights that God fills people with wisdom, intelligence, and knowledge for all kinds of craftsmanship (like building the Tabernacle), suggesting that human ingenuity is ultimately sourced from God.
2. Stewardship and Dominion
Genesis 1:28 gives humanity the mandate to "fill the earth and subdue it" and "rule" over creation.
AI, as a powerful tool, falls under this mandate for responsible stewardship. It should be used to benefit humanity, care for creation, and solve problems (e.g., in medicine, agriculture, and complex analysis).
The Bible supports innovation when it is used wisely and ethically to serve God and others.
3. Human Uniqueness and the "Breath of Life"
Genesis 2:7 describes God forming man from the dust and "breathing into his nostrils the breath of life," making him a "living being."
This is often used to establish a fundamental distinction between humans and AI. Humans possess a divine spark, soul, consciousness, and moral agency that artificial creations, no matter how advanced, lack.
This perspective warns against confusing machine intelligence with true consciousness or soul.
4. Warnings Against Pride and Idolatry
The Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9): This story is often cited as a cautionary tale about human technological ambition driven by pride ("so that we may make a name for ourselves"). It warns against innovation that attempts to replace or elevate itself above God.
Idols (e.g., Psalm 115:4-8; Isaiah 2:8): The Bible frequently condemns the worship of "the work of human hands." Some see a modern, metaphorical danger in elevating AI to a god-like status or trusting in it more than in God.
5. Wisdom and Ethical Use
Proverbs and James 1:5 emphasize that true wisdom comes from God. AI can provide information and knowledge, but it does not possess wisdom or moral discernment.
1 Corinthians 10:31 advises believers to "do all to the glory of God." This principle applies to the development and use of AI, urging its application be guided by moral principles (like truth, honesty, and justice—Micah 6:8).
6. Prophetic Interpretations
Some people look to eschatological (end-times) passages, though these are highly interpretive:
Daniel 12:4 mentions that "knowledge shall increase" in the time of the end, which some see as a possible reference to rapid technological and informational advancement, including AI.
Revelation 13:11-15 describes a "beast" that performs signs and gives "breath to the image of the beast, so that the image of the beast might even speak and might cause those who would not worship the image of the beast to be slain." This speaking, animated "image" is sometimes loosely speculated to be a form of advanced technology or AI used by a global power.
In summary, the Bible offers guiding principles rather than explicit rules about AI, encouraging a thoughtful approach that uses technology responsibly, maintains human dignity, and anchors ultimate hope and wisdom in God, not in human inventions.
