Horav S.Y. Zevin, z.l., offers a novel homiletic exposition of this pasuk. When one counts something, he indicates his esteem for the particular object. Indeed, at the beginning of Sefer Bamidbar, Rashi states that Hashem counted Bnei Yisrael a number of times because of His great love for them. The days and years of one’s life should likewise be important in one’s eyes. One should value every moment of life and appreciate its true meaning, “so that we do not struggle in vain nor produce for futility” (Isaiah 65:23). Those moments which have passed are no longer accessible to us. Therefore, every moment should be reckoned and cherished.
“Seven complete sabbaths it shall be.” This pasuk alludes to the days of our lives, as stated in Tehillim 90:10 “The days of our years, among them are seventy years.” Consequently, one should “count” his days to demonstrate his respect for the passage of time. There are, however, two ways to count. One can count his own money, or he can count money which belongs to another person. Obviously, one who counts his own money does so with concern and excitement, since he is dealing with his personal property. One who counts another’s money, however, will do so complacently, without emotional attachment, because he has not contributed to this wealth, it has no meaning or value to him. Man can count the days of his life apathetically or he can count them prudently, conscious of their value and worth. We are enjoined to “count for you,” as if this counting is for you and no one else. We must show our appreciation of the greatest gift from Hashem, life itself, and seek to take advantage of every moment granted to us by dedicating our days to the service of Hashem.
