A new analysis reveals how often religion comes up in conversations with ChatGPT as millions turn to AI for answers about faith.

According to OpenAI, the company behind the popular AI chatbot, ChatGPT, receives approximately 70 million religion-related requests every week. Nearly half focus on Islam, while Christianity accounts for more than a third.

The analysis, which examined requests between September 2025 and September 2026, found that 45% of religion-related questions concerned Islam, followed by Christianity at 34%. Hinduism accounted for 4%, Judaism for 2% and Buddhism for 1%.

Religious holidays also shaped what people were asking. Questions about Islam increased during Ramadan and Eid al-Adha, while requests related to Christianity climbed around Easter.

But users aren’t simply asking basic questions about religion. Many are turning to AI to explore Scripture, understand religious traditions and seek guidance on matters of faith.

OpenAI found that approximately 22 million weekly requests involved studying religious texts. Another 16 million focused on religious practices and holidays, while millions more addressed spiritual beliefs, meaning and personal guidance.

“People ask ChatGPT to explain difficult passages, find relevant commentaries, and help them understand how their traditions approach particular questions,” OpenAI researchers wrote.

Among Christianity-related requests, nearly half focused on Bible passages. Another 13% involved worship, sermons or church practices.

The findings suggest that AI is becoming an increasingly common resource for believers, helping them deepen their understanding of Scripture and religious teachings.

Separate research from the Barna Group found that practicing Christians use AI in their professional and personal lives more frequently than the average American. Nearly half also said they would trust AI to help with their spiritual growth.

However, the growing reliance on technology raises important questions about what role AI should play in Christian life.

Barna found that although practicing Christians already use AI more frequently than their pastors, they still want guidance from church leaders on using the technology responsibly. Just 12% of pastors said they felt prepared to provide that guidance.

OpenAI researchers emphasized that while artificial intelligence can help people explore their beliefs, it should never replace pastors, churches or personal relationships.

“AI is not — and should not become — an arbiter of religious truth or a replacement for spiritual guidance,” the researchers wrote. “Those roles belong to individuals, religious leaders, and congregations.”

Instead, researchers said AI should serve as a tool that helps believers better understand their faith and connect with their religious communities.

For Christians, the findings highlight both the opportunities and challenges of bringing AI into their spiritual lives. Technology can make biblical information more accessible, but faith, discipleship and spiritual growth still require human connection, discernment and guidance rooted in scripture.