Religious identity in the era of artificial intelligence: between technological possibilities and ethical dilemmas

In modern conditions, when the role of religious institutions in the life of national society is becoming increasingly important, the need for scientific research into various aspects of the relationship between religious organizations with the legal system and the state structure becomes obvious. This is indirectly evidenced by the intensification of scientific research, in which legal researchers analyze a wide range of issues related to canon law, the stages of its historical development and the place of religious institutions in the modern secular state. The article examines the impact of artificial intelligence technologies on the processes of forming a religious identity of an individual in the conditions of a modern secularized society. The dual nature of this impact is analyzed, which is characterized by the simultaneous presence of positive opportunities and potential risks for the spiritual development of a person. On the one hand, artificial intelligence creates new opportunities for democratizing access to religious knowledge, personalizing spiritual experience, expanding interfaith dialogue, and forming a tolerant attitude towards religious pluralism. AI technologies allow adapting sacred texts and prayer practices to the individual needs of believers, providing diverse theological interpretations, and promoting innovative forms of spiritual communication. On the other hand, serious risks associated with the manipulative potential of AI regarding religious consciousness, the possibility of spreading extremist religious content, the threat of the formation of pseudo-religious cults, and the loss of authenticity of traditional religious experience have been identified. Particular attention is paid to the phenomenon of technological fetishism, when artificial intelligence begins to be perceived as a carrier of transcendent properties. Specific cases of AI use in the religious sphere are investigated, including the creation of virtual priests, deepfake videos with religious leaders, and automated theological consultants. The results of the study indicate the need to develop a conceptual model for regulating the interaction of AI and the religious sphere, which should be based on the principles of protecting religious freedom, ensuring the authenticity of spiritual experience, and preventing religious manipulation. In addition, it is extremely important to use an interdisciplinary approach in studying the digital transformation of the religious sphere and designing ethical and legal standards for the use of artificial intelligence in the context of the spiritual development of the individual.