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does the bible have anything to say about artificial intelligence?

Adds the setting and its conversation across both testaments.

Genesis 1:26-28

“26 God said, “Let’s make man in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the sky, and over the livestock, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” 27 God created man in his own image. In God’s image he created him; male and female he created them. 28 God blessed them. God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the sky, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.””

This passage is from the first book of the Hebrew Bible, Genesis, which describes the creation of the world and humanity. It introduces the idea that humans are made in God's image and are given a unique role as stewards of creation.

What does it mean to exercise responsible 'dominion' over new forms of creation, including those we invent?

Then — the setting

The book of Genesis, likely compiled and edited over centuries, reached its present form perhaps in the 6th-5th centuries BCE, following the Babylonian exile. It was written for the people of Israel to understand their origins, their relationship with God, and their unique identity and purpose in the world. The concept of 'dominion' (רָדָה, radah) and 'subdue' (כָּבַשׁ, kabash) in this context does not imply ruthless exploitation but rather responsible stewardship, managing creation on behalf of its divine owner, akin to a royal administrator or shepherd. This understanding was crucial for a people who were often surrounded by polytheistic cultures with different creation myths.

Across the Testaments

This Old Testament passage lays a foundational understanding of humanity's role. The New Testament does not directly address 'artificial intelligence' but builds on this concept of human responsibility and stewardship. For example, in passages like Colossians 1:15-17, Jesus is presented as the one through whom and for whom all things were created, and in whom all things hold together. This reframes human dominion under Christ's ultimate authority and calls for a Christ-like stewardship characterized by love, sacrifice, and service (e.g., Philippians 2:5-8). While the Old Testament establishes the framework for humanity's power and responsibility, the New Testament deepens the ethical implications by connecting it to the character and mission of God revealed in Jesus.

Keep thinking

Read alongside it

Psalm 8:3-6
This psalm echoes humanity's exalted place and dominion over creation, reflecting on human dignity.
Proverbs 8:22-31
This passage personifies Wisdom as present at creation, suggesting that wisdom is essential for ordering and understanding the world.
Romans 8:19-22
This New Testament passage speaks of creation groaning and waiting for humanity's redemption, connecting human actions with the fate of the created world.

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