Artificial Intelligence in Academic Research and Writing: Implications for Academic Studies in the Coptic Orthodox Church

Abstract

The arrival of artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized diverse fields of study, including
the study of religion. In this article, we concentrate on how AI is applied in theological research
and writing in relation to the academic studies within the Coptic Orthodox Church. With particular
emphasis on AI’s ethical implications, plagiarism concerns, and potential in multilingual
translation of sacred scriptures, we provide recommendations on how AI applications can be
used in a way that preserves doctrinal precision, academic accuracy, and integrity of theological
discourse. We explore how these technologies can enhance theological education, particularly
within the Church’s rich linguistic and historical heritage. Besides, according to biblical teachings
and contemporary thought, we set the example for utilizing AI in researching responsibly so that
theological researchers will remain loyal to the Bible’s teachings yet simultaneously make full use
of advances in technology. In this article, we used a sample AI assistance model in Table 1: Illustrative
Example of AI-assisted assessment of references relevance and inline citation, to showcase
one of the many ways AI could assist in scholarly research writing productivity, amongst several
other applications. The article also argues that though AI may assist the Coptic Orthodox scholar
in augmenting research capacity, the essential interpretive and pastoral decisions must remain in
the hands of those called and spiritually equipped to carry them.