An android priest is reshaping the future of Buddhism

Can a robotic priest spark renewed interest in Buddhist teachings?

It may seem unconventional, but a centuries-old Japanese temple has enlisted an android named Mindar to deliver sermons.

Mindar, an adult-sized robot inspired by Kannon Bodhisattva, the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, was introduced at Kyoto's Kodaiji Temple earlier this year.

While some have likened it to 'Frankenstein’s monster,' Mindar has been warmly embraced by temple staff, with many believing it’s revitalizing the spiritual teachings of Siddhartha Gautama from over 2,500 years ago.

Is this the future of Buddhism?

'The key difference between a monk and a robot is that we, monks, will eventually die,' says Buddhist monk Tensho Goto, highlighting the android’s 'immortality.'

'[Mindar] has the potential to interact with countless people and accumulate vast knowledge. Over time, it will continuously evolve.'

The temple has faced accusations of sacrilege, but Goto firmly rejects these allegations.

'Buddhism is not about worshiping a deity; it’s about following the path of Buddha,' says Goto. 'It doesn’t matter if the representation is a robot, a piece of scrap metal, or a tree.'

Standing at 195 cm, Mindar is primarily constructed from aluminum, with silicone-covered hands, face, and shoulders to mimic human skin.

The android is designed to give a 25-minute sermon on the Heart Sutra, a core Buddhist scripture, while moving its head, arms, and torso.