​AMISH

Basic features of Amish life

 

The community is the center

Amish believe that the community is at the heart of their life and faith, and that the way to salvation is to live as a loving community apart from the world. Individualism is avoided.

 

Self-help

Members of the community help each other, and the whole community will work together to help a member in trouble. They do not accept state benefits or use insurance, but rely on community support instead.

 

Separate

The Amish believe that it's essential to keep themselves separate from the “world”, so they live in their own small communities and differ from other Americans in their dress, language, work, travel and education.

 

Not exclusive

The Amish are not exclusive, and have many contacts with outsiders, who they call “English”.

 

Amish groups

Each Amish district is fully independent and lives by its own set of unwritten rules, or Ordnung. The Old Order is the strictest of these groups. There is no central authority.

 

Simplicity and humility

The Amish stress simplicity and humility. They avoid anything associated with self-exaltation, pride of position or enjoyment of power.

 

Harmony with nature

Amish believe that God is pleased when people work in harmony with nature, the soil, the weather, and care for animals and plants. Amish always live in rural communities.

 

Technology

Some modern “conveniences”, such as cars, electricity and telephones are avoided. They only avoid technology where it might damage the community, not because they are Luddites or think technology is inherently evil.

 

Non-confrontation

Amish are pacifists and conscientious objectors. They avoid all violence - including angry words or going to law.

 

Discipline

The Amish community governs itself strictly. Baptised members are morally committed to church rules. Erring members may beshunned until there is repentance, forgiveness and restoration to full fellowship.

 

Language

Amish use three languages, a German dialect called Pennsylvania Dutch at home, High German for worship and English with outsiders.

 

Family

Amish only marry other Amish and don't divorce. They have large families averaging 7-8

children.

 

Education

Amish children are educated in their own schools. Schooling stops at 14 after which they learn practical skills on the job.

 

Holy days

Amish celebrate the same holy days as other Christians.

 

Growing up

After 16 Amish children can experience life outside the community for a few years to decide whether they wish to become full baptised members of the community. 90% decide to do so.

 

Watch the video below and discuss the differences between you and the Amish