AI Meets Mysticism: The Rise of LLM Divination in China

The rapid spread of large language models (LLMs) isn't just revolutionizing tech. It's now creating surprising cultural shifts. In China, these AI systems are being used for divination, blending tech with mysticism in unexpected ways. But what are the implications for traditional spiritual practices?

The New Age of Digital Divination

Chinese users are consulting LLMs for everything from career advice to romantic dilemmas and even in-game predictions. With over 23,000 posts analyzed from social platforms like Xiaohongshu, it's clear this isn't just a fringe activity. Users access these AI-driven insights through viral trends and the lure of zero-cost guidance.

This trend isn't just about curiosity. It's about anxiety. In an uncertain world, people are searching for clarity. AI, with its promise of repeatable and scalable guidance, offers a new kind of authority. But is it genuine? That's where the debate heats up.

Prompt Engineers or Spiritual Seekers?

A fascinating angle here's how users interact with these models. They become 'prompt engineers,' refining questions to coax out desired insights. It's a collaborative process, echoing traditional practices but with a tech twist. Interestingly, many users believe in the accuracy of these AI readings, attributing it to personal relevance, much like Barnum and confirmation biases at work.

However, professional diviners push back. They argue that LLMs lack the 'spiritual power' essential for true divination. This critique isn't just spiritual. It's economic. Keeping traditional methods relevant in a tech-driven world is no small feat.

The Blurred Lines of Belief

There's a tug-of-war between science and spirituality here. AI's precision meets age-old beliefs, creating a unique tension. Can AI replace the sacred? Should it? For now, what we see is a reshaping of divinatory authority. The practice adapts, becoming more about prompt-driven co-production than mystical revelation.

Ultimately, LLM divination preserves the core functions of its traditional counterpart. But in scaling and repeating these practices through AI, we question where true authority lies. One thing to watch: will this digital divination trend continue to grow, or will it fade as quickly as it appeared?