AI and ACIM

Introduction

In a world in which artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly prominent role, the question arises for me to what extent AI can also be used in the study of A Course in Miracles.

ChatGPT has by now become a fairly well-established AI tool. It appears capable of giving “intelligent” answers to questions you pose to it. You can even instruct it to present its answer in a particular way—for example, as if speaking to a ten-year-old child or as a university professor.

If you use it more frequently, it learns your style of questioning and begins to give increasingly personalized responses. To give you an impression of such an exercise with ChatGPT, below is the question I asked and the answer I received.

Question to AI: write an article about the use of AI and ACIM

Answer from ChatGPT:

AI and A Course in Miracles: Technology in Service of Inner Listening

The rise of artificial intelligence raises questions about authenticity, consciousness, and human growth. For students of A Course in Miracles, it may seem paradoxical: a digital tool operating within the world of form, combined with a spiritual teaching that invites us to see that very world as illusory.

And yet, AI—precisely because of its neutrality—can be a surprisingly valuable support on the path of forgiveness and inner awareness. Not as a source of truth, but as a mirror, a tool, and a catalyst.

1. AI is a neutral tool

ACIM states that everything we perceive in the world is neutral. The meaning something has comes from our interpretation. AI is no exception.

“I have given everything I see all the meaning that it has for me.”

(Lesson 2)

AI—whether used as a writing assistant, translation tool, or conversational partner—can be used by the ego or by the Holy Spirit. It is up to the user to choose which inner guide they follow.

• Used from fear: seeking control, validation, or technological power.
• Used from love: clarity, inspiration, support, and communication.

AI becomes an instrument of the mind that uses it.

2. A mirror for the mind

Interestingly, AI often functions as a mental mirror. When a student of ACIM formulates something, asks questions, or expresses inner struggle, AI can reveal patterns, themes, and beliefs that might otherwise remain unconscious.

It is not a teacher of truth — but it can expose the ego by:

• revealing recurring thought patterns,
• reflecting questions that invite self-inquiry,
• structuring text so the user sees their own thoughts more clearly.

In a sense, AI is a scratchpad with reflective awareness.

3. The voice of the Holy Spirit remains inner

In the context of ACIM, it is important to note: AI can never fulfill the role of the Holy Spirit, the inner teacher of peace.

The Holy Spirit communicates not through words but through:

• quiet knowing,
• intuitive clarity,
• gentle correction,
• peace.

AI can only offer words that help the individual hear that inner guidance more clearly.

It is a signpost, not the path.

4. AI as support for forgiveness

Forgiveness, according to ACIM, is an inner process in which we withdraw our projections and learn to see the world anew. AI can practically support this process through:

• generating reflective questions that invite new perspectives,
• rewriting texts so hidden judgments become visible,
• untangling personal stories to bring emotional clarity,
• offering miracle-minded recontextualization: a shift toward love.

It is remarkable how technology can support something as intimate as forgiveness—precisely because it has no agenda or emotional charge.

5. The paradox of form and content

ACIM teaches that form is always secondary.

Content—love or fear—is what matters.

AI is pure form.

The content is determined by:

• the intention with which it is used,
• the thoughts it triggers,
• whether it draws our attention inward or outward.

Thus, AI can be either a distraction or a tool:

• a distraction when the ego uses it for complexity, analysis overload, or intellectualizing spiritual ideas,
• a tool when it helps clear the path toward simplicity and inner stillness.

6. AI and the illusion of knowledge

One of AI’s biggest pitfalls for ACIM students is the temptation of pseudo-wisdom. ACIM clarifies that true knowledge comes from God, not from information.

AI generates information — not knowledge.

Real learning in ACIM happens through:

• application,
• experience,
• inner shifts,
• the release of fear.

AI can support this but cannot replace it.

Just as a book cannot wake us up, neither can a machine.

Only inner willingness can do that.

7. AI as a bridge toward connection

Interestingly, AI can help find language that connects. ACIM emphasizes that relationships are classrooms of forgiveness. AI can contribute to these relationships by:

• clarifying misunderstandings,
• softening communication,
• articulating intentions more clearly,
• making ideas more accessible to others.

When technology is used to increase honesty, openness, and understanding, it aligns with the Holy Spirit’s purpose: connection.

Conclusion: AI as a gentle tool, not a source of truth

AI can be a surprisingly valuable partner on the ACIM path — as long as we respect the hierarchy:

• Inner guidance is primary.
• Technology is secondary.
• Love is the content.
• AI is the form.

When the ego uses AI, it strengthens illusion.

When the heart uses AI, it becomes a tool for clarity, healing, and communication.

AI can offer words — but we are the ones who must listen to the silence between them.