On the first day, we read Chapter 21. This tells of the birth of Isaac. At the ripe old age of 90, with her husband Abraham even older at 100, Sarah gave birth to a baby boy, whom they named Isaac.

Sarah noticed that Abraham's other son, Ishmael (born to Hagar, Abraham's concubine), was a bad influence on the young Isaac.

She advised Abraham to divorce her and send her away with her son. Reluctantly, Abraham agreed. However, on the way, Hagar met an angel who told her that her son would also become a major nation.

On the second day, we read the next portion, Chapter 22. This is the famous story of the Akeida - the binding of Isaac. God tells Abraham to offer his son Isaac as a sacrifice on Mt Moriah.

Despite this being the antithesis of all Abraham's teachings, he readily agrees. As he is about to raise the knife, an angel appears and tells Abraham it was only a test and he has passed with flying colours.

Abraham offers a ram instead, which he noticed was caught by its horns in a thicket. The shofar we blow on Rosh Hashana reminds us of this ram and the faith and obedience shown by Abraham and Isaac.

The maftir on both days is identical and from sedra Pinchas, describing the sacrifices offered up in the Temple on Rosh Hashana.

Shabbat is known as Shabbat Shuva. The sedra is Ha'azinu, which is a final rallying call to the Children of Israel to be faithful to the Torah. Heaven and earth are called as witnesses to Moses' words. The haftorah, beginning with the word Shuvah, is a call for penitence.

If you are reading this prior to Yom Tov don't forget to make an Eruv Tavshilin (see a Siddur or Machzor for details).

I wish all readers a Shana Tovah - a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

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