Scientists in China are working on an AI tool that they hope will be able to translate animal noises into human language. Much like the technology used in Disney’s movie Up, the goal is to translate animal communication into human communication to facilitate cross-species dialogue.

While research is unclear whether or not this is possible, some work is currently being done with dogs to see if they are able to use a tactile mats to communicate with their owners.

The desire to talk with our pets and other animals is a common one. Dating back to Ancient Greece and the myth of Melampus and more recently the book and movie series Dr. Doolittle, humans have been fascinated with the idea of being able to speak with our furry counterparts.

Even the Bible includes a story of a miraculous event where a Donkey is given the ability to warn his rider in Numbers 22.

Our desire and inability to talk to animals points to a valuable Biblical truth: We have things in common with animals, but we are necessarily distinct. In the Creation narrative of Genesis 1 and 2 we see God creating animals and humans on the same day, and yet with very different processes. And ultimately, only humans are made in His own divine image.