The phrase "What is man that you are mindful of him?" comes from Psalm 8:4 and expresses awe and wonder at God's attention to humanity despite our seeming insignificance in the vastness of creation
. The psalmist, King David, marvels that the Creator of the heavens and the stars would care for human beings, who are made "a little lower than the heavenly beings" and crowned with glory and honor
. This question highlights several key ideas:
- Human insignificance vs. divine mindfulness: Humans are small and fragile compared to the vast universe, yet God is mindful of us and cares deeply
- Dignity and honor: Despite our lowly state, God has given humans a special place of dignity, authority over creation, and has crowned us with glory and honor
- God’s intimate care: God's mindfulness implies ongoing attention, care, and love for humanity. He is not distant but actively involved in our lives, even to the point of sending a Savior to redeem humanity
- Relationship to God: The question reflects the wonder at being the focus of God's love and attention, which should inspire humility, gratitude, and worship
In summary, "What is man that you are mindful of him?" is a poetic reflection on the paradox that though humans are small and frail, God values us immensely, cares for us personally, and has given us a significant role in creation
