When you think of the Amish, long beards and the rejection of modern technology likely come to mind. An estimated 360,000 Amish people live in the United States, yet many of us know very little about them. In this article, let’s shed some light on the fascinating lives of the Amish.
The Amish Are Not a Culture but a Religious Group
It might surprise you to learn that the Amish are a religious group and not a culture. As a branch of the Christian faith, they adhere to the basic tenets of Christianity. They also place a strong emphasis on simplicity, community, separation from popular culture, adult baptism, and pacifism.
Diversity Within the Amish
You may think that all Amish are the same, but they are not! There are subgroups within the Amish. There are four main groups – the Old Order, the New Order, the Amish Mennonites, and the Beachy Amish. Each group has its own rules. For example, the Amish Mennonites and the Beachy Amish often drive cars, while the rest use horse-drawn buggies.
No Dietary Restrictions
What do the Amish eat? Practically anything, as they do not have any dietary restrictions. They can enjoy meals ranging from burgers to pasta. People have reported seeing the Amish eat at the local Olive Garden, and some have even seen them take their buggies through Burger King drive-throughs.
Yes, They Pay Taxes
As the Amish in the United States are citizens of this country, they are required to pay taxes just like the rest of us. They do not, however, pay or collect Social Security, as they were exempted by Congress in 1965; the Amish view Social Security as a form of commercial insurance.
Exempt from Military Service
Besides Social Security, the Amish are also exempt from military service. This is due to their belief in non-resistance. The Amish generally adhere to the teachings of Christ, particularly the Sermon on the Mount, which calls for a rejection of violence and a commitment to non-resistance. The Amish are often compared to modern-day pacifists.
They Use Mirrors
While the Amish prohibit photography, they use mirrors like the rest of us. However, they use them differently. They use mirrors purely for practical reasons like shaving and hair care. This is why you won’t ever catch an Amish person checking themselves out using a mirror. The use of a mirror is allowed, as unlike a picture, it is not a graven image.
Follow the Ordnung
The Ordnung is a set of rules that each Amish community follows, covering religious and civil matters. Since the Amish interpret the Bible literally, these rules help keep members aligned with Biblical teachings. Each Amish community creates its own Ordnung because there is no central governing body. There are two types of Ordnung: written rules established early in the Amish tradition during conferences, and verbal rules passed down within each community.
Simple Clothing
Belts, sweaters, and neckties are banned in Amish communities. Amish clothing is usually plain and solid-colored. No patterns on clothing are allowed—they are considered too worldly and decorative. Shoes such as sneakers may be worn, but they must be for practical reasons. It seems that the Amish like to practice modesty.
Stop Schooling After the Eighth Grade
Most Amish children attend private schools, but about 10% of them attend public schools. However, after the eighth grade, Amish children will stop going to school. The Amish have the right to leave school at age 14, which was confirmed by a 1972 ruling of the United States Supreme Court.
Planes Are Okay
It is common to see the Amish travel in a horse and buggy. The Amish, especially those from the Old Order, don’t operate vehicles with motors. Hence, they do not use tractors for farming. With a tendency to reject modern technology, it is natural to think that the Amish are prohibited from boarding planes. However, the Amish are allowed to board commercial airlines when necessary.
Lower Risk of Cancer
The Amish have a lower risk of cancer. Is this because the Amish are some kind of superhumans? Nope! Researchers believe that the reason the Amish have a lower risk of cancer is due to their diet—they grow and eat their own produce. They practiced a whole-foods diet before it was cool.
They Use Hospitals
Despite having a lower risk of cancer, it doesn’t mean that the Amish are immune to other kinds of diseases. The Amish are just like the rest of us—susceptible to the common flu and high fever. While the Amish would opt for home remedies when they are sick, they will still use modern medicine and visit hospitals when necessary.
An Ancient Songbook
In Amish church services, they use a Christian songbook called the Ausbund. This book features 51 songs written by Anabaptists from Europe. It is the oldest continuously used Christian songbook and focuses on the faith and perseverance of Christians who were imprisoned and sought God for relief.
The Amish Do Use Electricity (Kind Of!)
The Amish live off the grid. There are no TVs or computers in Amish homes. However, they do use batteries, windmills, and solar panels to power essential items. It is said that if a power source is not artificial but is perceived as a natural gift from God, the Amish can use it; this is why they are not prohibited from using solar panels. However, the rules governing electricity usage are complex and vary by community.
Rumspringa: A Rite of Passage
“Rumspringa,” meaning “running around” in the Pennsylvania German dialect, is a period during which Amish youth socialize with their friends on weekends. Rumspringa only ends with marriage. Besides introducing young Amish men and women to one another, this period is important as it is when the youth decide whether they will leave or stay with the community.
