The Amish
Introduction
Farming is an expression of stewardship of God's earth ©
The Amish (pronounced 'Aahmish') are an American Protestant group with around 200,000 members descended from European Anabaptists who came to the USA more than two centuries ago to escape persecution.
They are best known for their 19th century way of life that was portrayed in the 1985 Harrison Ford film Witness, in which violent crime clashed with their peaceful existence.
Their old-fashioned traditions are not what is now called a 'lifestyle choice'. Amish believe that their religious faith and the way they live are inseparable and interdependent.
The Amish originated in Europe after splitting from Mennonite Swiss Brethren in 1692 over the treatment of members who had been found guilty of breaches of doctrine.
The first Amish arrived in Pennsylvania in the 1730s to escape persecution in Europe.
Basic features of Amish life
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.
Amish travel in horse-drawn buggies ©
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 be shunned 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.
Partially based on The Amish In Northern Indiana, by Samuel L. Yoder