Who Is ...

Rabbi Akiva: Akiva ben Joseph (c.50-c.135 CE), a tanna; one of the third generation of the Mishnaic Sages, who were active between 70 CE and 135 CE; although starting life as an ignorant shepherd, he became perhaps the most central authority quoted in the Mishnah; known by some as the "father of the Rabbinic Judaism"
Rabbi Akiva used to say, "Beloved is man, for he was created in G-d's image" (Pirke Avot 3.18). The Maharal asks, "More beloved than whom? More beloved than animals? Isn't that obvious? More beloved even than the angels." Man is the pinnacle and focal point of creation - more precious to G-d than any other creature, he was created in the image of his Maker (Tosafot Yom Tov).

Among all the creation these was found no suitable helper for Adam because man is unique - man alone is made in the image of G-d. The Psalmist asks the L-rd, "What are mere mortals, that You concern Yourself with them; humans, that you watch over them with such care?" (Ps 8:3(4), CJB Yeshua reminds us, "Aren't sparrows sold for next to nothing, two for an assarion? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father's consent. As for you, every hair on your head has been counted. So do not be afraid, you are worth more than many sparrows" (Matthew 10:29-31, CJB).

Man is distinctively different from the animal kingdom because he has a soul, because he was created for relationship with G-d and because G-d desires relationship with him. While man often has relationship with animals: dogs, cats and horses being perhaps the most common, man is the master in the relationship, as the Psalmist goes on to say, "You made him rule what Your hands had made ... sheep and oxen, all of them, also the animals in the wilds, the birds in the air, the fish in the sea" (Ps 8:5-6(6-7), CJB). In the same way, Father G-d is the Master in our relationship with Him, and as a good and loving Master, He provides everything we need.

So when we are cast down, we need to remember that we are different from everything else in creation, for we were created for fellowship with our Master.

Further Study: Jeremiah 29:11-14; 1 Corinthians 9:9-10

Application: Do you feel just the same as everyone else? Are you one of those people who always seem to lead a dog's life? Does life seem humdrum and without purpose? Reach out to G-d today, because He cares for you as no other can. He has a plan and a purpose for your life.

© Jonathan Allen, 2005