Robot Monk in China�s Buddhist Temple
A new monk has joined services at a Buddhist temple on the outskirts of Beijing. He moves around the temple, chanting Buddhist mantras, and talks to anyone who is eager to engage him in a conversation. Although, visitors have to stoop real low to talk to him, because he is only two feet tall, and made of metal and plastic.
Named Xian'er, the robot monk, resembles a cartoon-like novice monk in yellow robes with a shaven head, holding a touch screen on his chest. Xian'er can hold a conversation by answering about 20 simple questions about Buddhism and daily life, listed on his screen, and perform seven types of motions on his wheels. Master Xianfan, Xian�er�s creator, said the robot monk was the perfect vessel for spreading the wisdom of Buddhism in China, through the fusion of science and Buddhism.
