LEH: Can artificial intelligence complement Buddhist learning without displacing the human teacher, traditional study and contemplative practice? That question ran through the second day of the National Scholars’ Seminar at the Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), Choglamsar, where scholars examined AI’s growing interface with Buddhist education, philosophy, mindfulness and mental health.
The day-long technical proceedings brought together scholars, research students and learners for presentations and discussions on the opportunities and limitations of emerging technologies in traditional Buddhist learning.
A technical session chaired by Khenpo Tashi Tsering and moderated by Ngawang Sertso opened with a presentation by Geshe Lobsang Wangchuk on “Examining How to Face Personal and Others’ Difficulties through the Practice of the Two Truths.” The presentation was followed by an interactive discussion with scholars and students.
Ven. Stenzin Namgal, a PhD student, then examined whether artificial intelligence could replace traditional methods of Buddhist study and contemplation, raising questions about the role of technology in a learning tradition centred on direct engagement, reflection and practice.
Dr Lobsang Tsultrim Bhutia presented an analysis of mind training based on the Four Dharmas of Dakpo Rinpoche, followed by an exchange with participants.
The afternoon sessions brought AI and mindfulness into closer conversation. Dr Tsering Dolkar presented “Examining How to Use AI with Mindfulness and Awareness,” while Khenpo Tashi Tsering spoke on “Buddhist Research Methodology.”
A separate technical session chaired by Prof Anant Kumar of the Department of Sanskrit, University of Delhi, focused on the possible impact of AI on traditional Buddhist education.
Dr Konchok Tsetan, in his presentation “Examining Whether Artificial Intelligence Hinders Buddhist Traditional Education,” discussed the Guru-disciple relationship, devotion, human resources and traditional dialectical methods. He cautioned against excessive reliance on AI, arguing that such dependence could weaken analytical thinking.
The debate extended to whether AI systems or robotic teachers could eventually replace the traditional Guru-disciple relationship.
Sera Key Geshe Thabke, examining AI as a tool for the preservation of Dharma, acknowledged its potential applications in teaching, learning, meditation support and digitisation of Buddhist scriptures. At the same time, he stressed that technology could not substitute for practice, oral transmission, empowerment or monastic debate.
He also raised concerns over excessive dependence on technology, including possible effects on memory and critical engagement, besides the risk of AI-generated inaccuracies and distortions in Buddhist teachings.
The seminar also looked at the evolution of AI itself, with Dr Stanzin Mingyur presenting “A Brief History of Artificial Intelligence.”
The discussions subsequently moved beyond education to examine the relationship between Buddhist thought, literature, mental health and technology.
Dr Dilliip Kumar Pattanayaka presented “Poetics of the Transformed Mind: Buddhist Caryagiti and Buddhist Mind Training in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” exploring the interaction between Buddhist literary traditions, mind training and contemporary technological developments.
Ven. Tsering Kunzom addressed contemporary mental health concerns, including depression, through the framework of Buddhist mindfulness. Her presentation examined the causes and symptoms of depression and discussed the Four Foundations of Mindfulness.
The day’s discussions concluded with a question posed by Geshe Thabke that encapsulated the wider debate over artificial intelligence and consciousness: “Does a chatbot have a mind?”
The question-and-answer sessions throughout the day allowed scholars and students to challenge presentations, seek clarifications and examine both the possibilities and limitations of AI in Buddhist education and practice.
The proceedings were compiled by Khenpo Konchok Namdak, Assistant Professor, Department of Bhot Bauddh; Ven. Jigmet Chorol, PhD Scholar; and Acharya Kunga Lhakey.
