The family in “Fiddler on the Roof” gathers for a moving prayer around the dinner table. Because “Fiddler on the Roof” is a beloved musical, the prayer is performed in a sing-song manner right before the family partakes in Sabbath dinner. Watch the short but moving clip to hear the powerful prayer.
Musicals continued to be one of the most popular forms of entertainment. Hundreds of thousands visit New York City annually to take in a Broadway play or two, many of which are musicals. Likely, right off the top of your head, you can name a handful of musicals. “Hamilton,” “Les Misérables,” “The Lion King,” “Cats” and “Wicked” are just a few of the many successful Broadway musicals that have legions of dedicated fans.
Another beloved Broadway musical is “Fiddler on the Roof,” which was later adapted into a 1971 Academy Award-winning film. According to IMDB, “Fiddler on The Roof” is about a large, traditional Jewish family living in Russia at the beginning of the 20th century.
In the clip posted on YouTube, Tevye, the patriarch of the family, returns home and enthusiastically greets his loved ones as he introduces them to Perchik. As the introductions are made, the table is set for Sabbath dinner.
Around the 4:30-minute mark, the family gathers around the dinner table, but before they enjoy the food that has been prepared, they pray. Of course, with this being a musical, the prayer is done in song.
They ask for the Lord’s protection over the family, to guide them away from sin and shame and to have the family’s daughters emulate Ruth and Esther. The mother and father also ask the Lord to send their daughters caring and loving husbands.
The beautiful scene captures a loving family calling out to and asking the Lord for His guidance, protection and direction. It’s something that is rarely seen in modern films.
Mark 11:24 “For this reason I say to you, whatever you make a request for in prayer, have faith that it has been given to you, and you will have it.”