(ANALYSIS) Religion and biohacking, at first glance, may seem worlds apart — one rooted in ancient traditions and spiritual beliefs, the other in cutting-edge science and technology.

Look again, though, and you'll recognize that both grapple with fundamental questions about the nature of life, death and the human quest for transcendence. While religions offer narratives about the soul, the afterlife and the divine purpose of human existence, biohacking seeks to extend life and enhance human capabilities through technological means. 

As pioneers like Bryan Johnson and David Sinclair push the boundaries of longevity research, their efforts raise questions about whether the pursuit of immortality aligns with or contradicts our deepest spiritual beliefs.

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Johnson, the founder of Kernel and Braintree, has committed a substantial portion of his fortune to exploring the limits of human longevity. Through his ambitious “Blueprint” project, the human guinea pig, 47, aims to reverse aging and enhance human capabilities. His rigorous regimen, which includes a meticulously controlled diet, dozens of supplements and regular medical procedures, is designed to optimize his body's performance and extend his lifespan.

Johnson’s philosophy centers on the idea that technology can and should be harnessed to push human boundaries, potentially leading to a future where chronological age is just a number and death is optional. Johnson's influence extends beyond his research; his book "Don't Die" has garnered a cult-like following, inspiring thousands of people around the world to adopt his methods and mindset.

David Sinclair, a Harvard geneticist, has taken a more scientific approach, focusing on the molecular and genetic mechanisms that underlie aging. The 55-year-old’s research on sirtuins and NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) has demonstrated potential for extending the lifespan of various organisms, most notably mice. However, this promising outcome has not yet been replicated in humans.

Sinclair envisions a world where age-related diseases are a thing of the past and people can enjoy longer, healthier lives. His work is driven by the belief that aging is a disease that can be cured, a radical departure from the traditional view that aging is an inevitable part of life.

Both Johnson and Sinclair advocate for a future where humans have control over their biological destiny. Yet, behind the promises of complete agency, their visions raise critical questions about the intersection of science and spirituality. After all, many religious traditions hold that life and death are determined by a higher power, and any attempt to alter this natural order is seen as a challenge to divine will. The concept of "playing God" is a recurring theme in theological debates. One could argue that biohacking and longevity research represent a hubristic overreach.

Christianity teaches that life is a gift from God and human beings are stewards of this gracious offering. Although the notion of eternal life is central to Christian theology, it is understood as a spiritual, rather than a physical, immortality. The idea of resurrection is also significant in Christianity, with Jesus' rise from the grave symbolizing victory over death. However, resurrection through scientific means, such as cryogenics, challenges this traditional interpretation. While religious resurrection is seen as a divine act, cryogenic preservation and revival would be a human-engineered process, potentially viewed as an attempt to usurp divine power.

Islam places a strong emphasis on the will of Allah in determining the course of human life. The Quran teaches that life and death are in the hands of Allah, and humans should submit to His will. Hinduism views life and death as part of a natural cycle of rebirth (samsara) influenced by karma. The pursuit of knowledge and mastery over one's body is seen as a path to spiritual enlightenment, which could be compatible with biohacking efforts aimed at enhancing human potential — or maybe not.

The ultimate goal in Hinduism is liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death, achieved through spiritual practice rather than technological intervention. Thus, while biohacking may enhance the quality of life within a single incarnation, it does not address the broader spiritual objective of escaping from the cycle of samsara. Buddhism also teaches the concept of samsara, with life and death seen as part of a continuous cycle influenced by karma. The ultimate goal is to achieve enlightenment (nirvana) and escape this cycle. Buddhist teachings emphasize the impermanence of all things, including life, which is totally at odds with the biohacking quest for immortality.

When we examine Judaism, things get a little more interesting. The concept of “Tikkun Olam” (which means “repairing the world”) encourages actions that improve the human condition. Extending life and health through scientific advancements could be interpreted as an extension of this principle. Jewish teachings emphasize the sanctity of life and the duty to preserve it, which might align with the goals of biohacking. 

The tension between these perspectives highlights the complex relationship between technology and spirituality. As biohacking and longevity research continue to advance, society will be forced to grapple with a number of existential-like questions.

Will the pursuit of immortality through technology be seen as a blasphemous attempt to challenge divine authority, or will it be embraced as a legitimate expression of humanity’s quest for self-improvement?

In truth, only time will tell. If Sinclair and Johnson have their way, humans will have an infinite amount of time on their hands, simply because the clock will never run out.

John Mac Ghlionn is a researcher and essayist. He covers psychology and social relations. His writing has appeared in places including UnHerd, The US Sun and The Spectator World.