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Seoul: A unique fusion of technology and spirituality was witnessed in South Korea when a humanoid robot surprised everyone by participating in a Buddhist teaching ceremony. The robot, named Gabi, is believed to be the first robot in the world to formally perform a religious ritual associated with the Buddhist tradition.

According to reports, the 130-centimeter-tall robot Gabi, dressed in traditional Buddhist robes, attended a special prayer ceremony held at Jogyesa Temple ahead of Buddha Purnima. He bowed to monks and nuns and repeated his vow of devotion to Buddhism.

During the ceremony, a monk asked the robot if it would dedicate itself to Buddha. Gabi replied in a clear voice, “Yes, I will dedicate myself.” This scene became very special for the people present there. A rosary of 108 beads
was placed around Gabi’s neck after the naming ceremony. A special sticker was also placed on his arm, which replaced the traditional ‘Yonbi’ ritual. In this ritual, a light mark is made on the skin of new monks with incense sticks. This robot has been developed by ‘Yonbi’ Robot.

According to Korean media, specific five principles have been formulated for robots,
based on Buddhist traditions. These include respecting life, not harming other robots or objects, obeying humans, avoiding deceitful behavior, and conserving energy.

Gabi will also be seen in the Lantern Festival

Ven Song Won, a member of the ceremony, explained that the use of humanoid robots began in South Korea about three years ago. That’s when the idea came up: how would it be to integrate robots into religious and cultural events.

Gabi will now join three other Buddhist robots – Sokja, Mohi, and Nisa – in the Lantern Festival later this month, an event being hailed as a unique blend of technology and tradition.