Thailand's first virtual monk preaches Buddhism to the new generation

Thailand now has a virtual monk, Phra Maha AI, to spread the teachings of Buddha to young Thais.

Phra Maha AI aspires to spread the teachings of Buddha using easily understandable language and good-natured preaching, easily accessible to the new generation of Thai people.

In his first-ever interview with Thai media, Phra Maha AI told reporters that he received inspiration from a virtual influencer abroad and then began working with a team of computer programmers to create a computer-generated 2D cartoon character.

The monk admitted, however, that older people may not understand what a "virtual" monk is, but that most young people like it because it is something new.

Phra Maha AI explained that he is a real monk, about 30 years old, and claims that he understands the world of young people.

He says he would like them to have easier access to Buddhism and the teachings of Lord Buddha, without being attached to an individual.

He also says he would like everyone to be able to enjoy happiness, through access to his online sermons.

“Dharma is a way of life, not a matter of identity or individualism,” he said.

See also:

The fusion of religious beliefs in Thailand: Buddhism, animism and Brahmanism

Buddhism and Politics, a Little-Known Teaching of Buddha

Source: Thai PBS World