"That is why alchemy exists," (pg) 150

My thoughts on this are that Santiago is becoming so smart that he is smarter than the sun and that santigo will become even smarter.

"When a person really desires something, all the uviverse conspires to help that person to relize his dream" (pg) 114

This is important to santiago because he really desires his own personal Legend, so he relies on this to help him finish his journey.

I personally dont dont believe that is true, i dont think there is a force which helps you. I think your on your own  for everything and anything.