What Is the Significance of Man in Such a Vast Universe?

An infinite spiritual Creator would naturally create the largest material universe imaginable—or rather, unimaginable. The number of stars is beyond human comprehension, as stated in the verse: "He counts the number of the stars and calls them all by name" (Psalms 147). Only the Creator can number the stars and know each one individually. Scientists can provide mathematical estimates, but they cannot truly grasp such vast numbers. Only the Creator knows the scope of existence and can discern every detail within it.

"What is the dignity of a man? It is his clothing," meaning that clothing should reflect the status of the person wearing it.

The Creator's glory is manifested in the fact that the material creation reflects His ability as far as possible. The universe we live in is the largest conceivable, demonstrating that the Creator behind it is the greatest possible—an ultimate Creator. The true Infinite.

This leads to the question: What is the significance of man in such a vast universe?

One must remember that since Hashem is infinite and not bound by material, there is no difference between a mighty galaxy and a tiny atom for Him, as He is everywhere and at all times. Size and quantity are concepts that amaze only beings constrained by material perceptions and dimensions.

A person does not need to be large to be important. They only need to be a thinker.

For someone who can think is certainly more important than someone who cannot.

The proof of man's significance in the universe is found in his unique complexity and essence.

This is because man is essentially the most complex creature in the universe. No star compares to the complexity of a human brain. Even numerically, a human brain contains 100 billion neurons that work in coordination with each other—more than the number of stars in a typical galaxy (Wikipedia: "The number of neurons in the mature human brain is estimated at roughly 90 billion, forming more than 100 trillion synapses"). However, unlike stars, these neurons have incredibly intricate relationships allowing for human cognitive function.

Here it is important to emphasize quality over size and quantity. The truth is there is no essential difference between a small asteroid in space and a massive star; both are composed of the same elements and subject to the same gravitational forces. Similarly, the human body is made of elements and subject to gravity, but unlike them, man possesses a soul. He is a thinking, observing, and choosing being.

When we reach the source of existence, Hashem, we find that He created a universe of ingenious complexity and possesses infinite intellectual power. Although man is far from any comparison to Hashem, it remains a fact that man is closer and more similar to His Creator than any star or galaxy. Man is capable of intention, thought, understanding reality, and recognizing his Creator. Man is created in the image of Hashem, and therefore man's importance is based on his status as a soul-bearing, thinking, and speaking being: "And Hashem Elokim formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life" (Genesis 2:7).

A galaxy and a star lack intelligence, do not require special attention from the Creator, and cannot form a personal relationship with Him. A star cannot speak or pray, and even an entire galaxy cannot wish or think of a single thought. Man is the crown of creation—not because of his size, but because he has a "soul of life".

He is the only being capable of recognizing his Creator, praying to his Creator, serving his Creator, and establishing a spiritual connection with his spiritual Creator akin to him (the sages said: "Man is beloved, for he was created in the image"). Therefore, one man is more important than any galaxy: "Therefore every individual must say, 'For my sake the world was created'" (Mishnah Sanhedrin, Chapter 4, 5).

Most people think in black and white terms. They believe man must be at the center of the universe, or else he is of no importance. This is an error. We shouldn't see the size of the universe and stars as an indication of man's status. The truth is much greater:

The universe is the palace of Hashem Z-ebaot, a palace unmatched in splendor and greatness, for only such a magnificent palace befits honoring the King of Kings, Hashem. However, this does not diminish our importance, for we are the honored guests in the King’s palace, and the King views us as His children dwelling in His palace: "You are children of Hashem your Elokim" (Deuteronomy 14:1).

The King gives all His attention to the guests. Does the guest need to ask the King: "Did you build this entire palace just for me?" Of course not. Should the guest be disappointed with the response, that the palace was built for the King? Of course not. Quite the opposite: the guest should be happy knowing that the King loves him and chooses to give him personal attention in such a large and magnificent palace.

And like any good and caring King, Hashem designed a special and comfortable room for the beloved honored guests He invited to His palace. Therefore, Earth was specially crafted for humans. A world that was previously uninhabitable for humans: "Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was on the face of the deep" (Genesis 1:2). The Torah tells us how the Creator prepared and refined the world in stages so it would become a proper home for man.

Therefore, every person should remember that they are the most important being in the King's palace, the only one created "in the image of Hashem," and the King gives personal attention to all who seek closeness to Him, as the verse states: "Hashem is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth" (Psalms 145:18).