DHARMA TRANSFORMATION IN THE DIGITAL AGE: APPLYING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR PROACTIVE DISSEMINATION OF BUDDHISM.

Abstract

This academic article aims to explore the roles, potential, and applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for proactive Buddhist propagation in the digital era. Utilizing qualitative document analysis and synthesis of scholarly literature, social phenomena, and related Dhamma principles, the study reveals that amidst the limitations of traditional propagation in reaching online-centric younger generations, AI serves as a strategic expedient aligned with Puccalannuta (knowing the individual) and Kalannuta (knowing the time). AI functions as a powerful supportive tool through Dhamma chatbots acting as 24/7 digital companions, personalized recommendation systems tailoring content to individual tendencies, and language technologies bridging access to religious repositories. Nevertheless, AI is merely a vehicle for accessibility and cannot replicate the human empathy, compassion, and genuine spiritual friendship offered by the Sangha. Therefore, AI implementation demands strict ethical vigilance against AI hallucination and spiritual filter bubbles. Ultimately, Buddhist propagation must still drive individuals from study (Pariyatti) to practice (Patipatti) and realization (Pativedha), with the Sangha maintaining a vital "Human-in-the-Loop" role to validate content, ensuring sustainable digital Dhamma democratization while preserving the purity of the Dhamma.