Debunking Misconceptions: Deepfakes vs. Ancient Religious Texts

The article regarding the idea that deepfakes could be used to rewrite The Bible and the Quran highlights a fundamental misunderstanding of both modern technology and the nature of these ancient texts. Deepfakes are 21st-century innovations, whereas The Bible and the Quran are products of ancient civilization.

The Bible, specifically the Torah, is approximately 3,000 years old. It was not an instant product but rather evolved over time through various prophetic writings, gathered, and compiled by Jewish scribes during the Babylonian Exile and the Persian period. The New Testament, which comprises the majority of the Christian Bible, dates from around the 1st century AD. The first written accounts of the first events in the Bible developed several centuries after the events occurred.

Contrastingly, the Quran was revealed to Muhammad over the span of a little more than two decades starting in 610 AD, when the angel Gabriel first appeared to him. The Quran is significant not because it describes events but because it is seen as a direct word from Allah, the Creator, to humanity. This divine inspiration is recorded meticulously by scribes and memorized by devoted followers.

Quran: A Guiding Light

Chapter 17, Surah Al-Isra, Verses 9: The Quran, in its early verses, explicitly states that it is a guide to the straight path. This demonstrates the purpose and nature of these sacred texts: to lead people to God and to righteousness. It is not merely historical documentation but a living, guiding document for believers.

Here is the verse in full: 'In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the Merciful. Indeed, this Qur'an guides to that which is most righteous and it gives good news to the righteous and warns against the retribution of an Evil Day. Verily, it is guides those who believe to what is most righteous.'

The Reliability of Religious Texts

The preservation of ancient religious texts over time is a matter of significant scholarly interest. Despite the vast array of translations and differing interpretations, a number of variances exist, both within and between these scriptures.

Quran Variations: There are around 99,000 known variances among the 30 Arabic translations of the Quran. These variations, while significant, primarily relate to minor differences in wording, punctuation, and diacritical marks rather than substantive changes in meaning.

Bible Variations: The variations in translations of the English Bible range from 100 to 500,000, depending on the criteria used. These differences mainly stem from the numerous translations and the challenges in reconciling ancient oral traditions with written recordings. Unlike the Quran, there is no single authoritative text or manuscript, leading to a wide range of versions.

While there are claims about the existence of 'original' sources, it's important to understand that handwritten manuscripts and oral traditions led to these texts. There are no extant 'original' copies of the Bible, although some famous ancient manuscripts, like the Dead Sea Scrolls and the original manuscripts of the Book of Mormon, are indeed regarded highly by scholars.

Complexity of Religious Texts

The Bible has evolved over time, with different versions and interpretations, and branches of Christianity have scattered stories about apostolic missions and subsequent divisions. For instance, it is believed that several apostles, including Thomas and John, traveled to different parts of the world, leading to varying local traditions and texts.

Regarding Islam, there are four or five main sects of Muslims, each with differing views and practices. Sects such as the Shia, Sunni, Sufi, Kharijite, and Ibadi, among others, have their own interpretations and can often condemn the others as apostates.

Similarly, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons) and its offshoots have multiple branches, each with unique teachings and practices. This division is not just geographical but also ideological, leading to a wide range of denominations and beliefs.

These complex histories, coupled with the vast number of texts, manuscripts, and translations, make the comparison of deepfakes to the preservation and interpretation of religious texts far-fetched. While deepfake technology can create convincing but false content, it cannot replicate the spiritual and historical significance of these sacred documents.

However, the idea that deepfakes could be used to manipulate or misrepresent religious texts is a concern. It underscores the need for critical thinking and the importance of verified sources. Understanding the nature of these texts—from their origins to their preservation—can help us appreciate their true value and meaning.

In conclusion, deepfakes are a product of modern technology meant to mimic human facsimiles, while ancient religious texts like the Bible and the Quran are spiritual guides with rich historical and cultural significance. Despite the many translations and versions, these texts remain unique and irreplaceable, serving as a testament to the enduring quest for divine guidance.

brThis article aims to provide clarity and promote understanding on the topic, showing that deepfakes and religious texts have entirely different contexts and functionalities.