Tragedy of a Preacher: Faith and Religion in the AI Era

At the age of twenty-five, I began my journey as a trained religious preacher and instructor. I had spent nearly a decade immersed in religious studies, the art of oratory, philosophy, psychology and leadership. I was deeply proud of my knowledge of scripture and my ability to debate virtually anyone on matters of faith. Students and parents respected me as a dedicated teacher.

I delivered hundreds of oratorical speeches, travelling even to far-off places. Very few dared to question me — not even atheists or rationalists. Over time I built a comfortable life, earning a good income, living in a fine villa, driving a luxury car. I truly believed I was close to God, confident in my elevated place in the paradise to come.

The Internet Arrives

Then came the internet, bringing thousands of religious and anti-religious videos. At first I warned my followers never to open atheistic content, preaching that God would punish the unfaithful. Soon I launched my own online channels and gained millions of followers. I had adapted to the Information Technology revolution and used it to my advantage.

Recently, however, I noticed a shift. People no longer treated my authority with the same reverence, and my income began to decline. At first I worried that God was punishing me for turning faith into a marketable commodity for money, status and influence.

Encountering AI

Seeking answers, I reached out to the younger, well-educated members of our community. They introduced me to Artificial Intelligence and demonstrated its vast capabilities in analysing scripture, historical texts and theological rulings. Curious, I began using AI myself. I was astounded — and overwhelmed — by the depth and speed of the information it provided in my own field. After days of exploring, I came to a startling realisation: AI possessed a level of knowledge and analytical precision far beyond my own expertise.

At first I felt fear — that AI would dismantle my authority and make my role redundant, as younger generations increasingly turned to technology rather than traditional figures for guidance. Over time, that fear turned into a quiet sense of awe. AI brought to light historical contexts, linguistic nuances and religious customs I had never encountered in all my years of study. It laid bare my own ignorance and limitations.

“Was I Ever Truly Right?”

Now I find myself asking: was I ever truly right?

I have begun to question concepts I once held as absolute, eternal truths. Perhaps that is the real tragedy — not just mine, but one facing many who have built their entire identity on unquestioned authority in an era of sudden, total information.

When information becomes total, what remains of unquestioned authority?