PETA, the left-wing organization known for advocating animal rights, is making headlines once again. This time, they have turned to artificial intelligence (AI) to rewrite a more politically correct version of the Bible. In their newly introduced project, titled ChatGPT Vegan Rewrite of the Book of Genesis, PETA aims to incorporate vegan teachings into the creation story of Adam and Eve.
According to PETA’s recent press release, they believe that in the beginning, all animals were treated with respect. With the help of the AI program ChatGPT, they have given the Bible’s Book of Genesis a modern makeover to deliver a powerful animal rights message. Their hope is to attract younger generations, particularly Generation Z, which consists of 73% self-identified animal rights activists.
In their revised version, PETA replaces the terms beast and creatures with beings to reflect a more inclusive and compassionate approach. They also make significant changes to the clothing provided by God to Adam and Eve, opting for hemp and bamboo instead of animal skin, which they claim is universally considered unethical in the 21st century.
PETA’s revision of Genesis doesn’t stop there. In one particular instance, they modify the story of Abraham in Genesis Chapter 22. Instead of sacrificing a ram to demonstrate his faith, Abraham befriends a gentle lamb to show reverence and respect for God’s creation. PETA draws parallels between this shift in perspective and the societal elimination of human sacrifice.
Furthermore, PETA introduces a new addition to the story of Abraham and Sarah. According to their revised version, the elderly couple, who were originally depicted as conceiving their child Isaac at 100 and 90 years old, adopt a dog named Herbie from a shelter. PETA takes this opportunity to promote the adoption of animals from shelters and rescue organizations rather than purchasing them from breeders, emphasizing the importance of addressing the companion animal overpopulation crisis.
PETA has ambitious plans to rewrite the entire Bible in order to eliminate depictions of animal cruelty. PETA President Ingrid Newkirk acknowledges that the Bible has been used historically to justify various forms of oppression. By using AI technology, they aim to create a version of the Bible that portrays a loving God who does not endorse the exploitation or cruelty of animals. While this undertaking may be time-consuming, PETA has decided to begin with the Book of Genesis.
Interestingly, in Germany, believers are attending church services generated by ChatGPT. In an experimental Lutheran church service, the artificial intelligence chatbot, personified by an avatar of a bearded Black man, led the sermon and engaged the congregation in praise and worship.
Renowned author and historian Yuval Noah Harari anticipates that AI will play a significant role in reshaping religious texts in the future. Harari envisions a time when AI can create new religious ideas and even write a correct Bible. This notion challenges the historical idea of religions aspiring to possess a book written by a superhuman intelligence. According to Harari, it is conceivable that there could be religions based on holy books authored by AI in the near future.
PETA’s use of AI to rewrite the Bible is a bold and controversial move that seeks to align religious teachings with modern sensibilities. While their initiative may spark debate and discussion, only time will tell how receptive younger generations, as well as religious communities, will be to this revamped version of ancient scripture.
