The Ethical Implications of AI in Expressing Religious Beliefs Online: A Restatement of the Concept of Religion

Abstract

This research aimed to discuss the significant impact of AI on worship activities in digital religion, considering its presence led to an ambiguity in understanding religion due to user-influenced content. While this allows easy access to religious studies, AI possibly weakens users in determining the legitimacy of sources. For Muslims, the legality and inheritance of spiritual knowledge are fundamental, especially in the era of AI technology. This paper is exploratory research using qualitative methods and data sources with a psychological approach to explore the meaning of religion as a restatement in terms of AI discourse. Religion in Islam is al-Din, which refers to the beliefs, faith, behaviour, and teachings of a Muslim, both individually and collectively, who have noble power and desire towards self-improvement to become a perfect human (insan kamil). For Muslims, their entire ethical life is worship because Islam is a complete way of life. AI as external assistance and the soul and conscience of religious people are the main determinants based on faith, knowledge, and charity. Understanding religion with appropriate sources of knowledge produces individuals with pacified, tranquil souls and a strong conscience.