Amish Customs

The most familiar Amish images come from settlements of Old Order Amish, the most strict and least likely to compromise with the worldly culture around them of all of the Amish orders. Amish society is not organized by written rules, but rather by a set of understood behavior guidelines passed down from one generation to next, called Ordnung, and based on a literal interpretation of the Bible of how to not conform to worldly customs. This varies between settlements and regulates dress, courting and marriage customs, gender roles, use of modern technology, and every other aspect of Amish life. Maintaining the strength of their community and family are overriding principles that guide every decision of the settlement.

Easily recognized by their plain dress, Amish standards of appearance set them apart from their fellow American citizens. Women wear dark, simple long-sleeved dresses with white aprons and capes. Men wear black pants with suspenders, jackets, and wide-brimmed hats. Buttons are not allowed as a result of Amish experiences in Europe. It was often vain military leaders, sporting stylish mustaches and festooned with elaborate buttons, which carried out their persecution. In fact, the Amish reject anything military. In addition to their unique dress, Amish men stand out with their unique style of facial hair. Once a grown man is married, he begins to grow his beard; but no men have mustaches. Photographs are not allowed because they are considered examples of graven images as described in the Ten Commandments. The Amish also practice conscientious objection to military service and turn the other cheek in the face of personal attacks and confrontations.

Following the example of Christ in the Bible, high value is placed upon humility and submission. This translates to no individualism, competitiveness, or materialism. For example, automobile ownership is not allowed because it is believed it would cause division within the community by highlighting rich vs. poor and bring about boasting. However, an Amish individual will accept a ride in a car when business proceedings or family emergencies require speed or a great distance.

Homes are without telephones and electricity to defend the family from intrusions into family life from the outside culture. Telephones are believed to rob community because face-to-face interaction is not needed. However, communal telephones in outbuildings are allowed for outgoing calls for business and emergencies. For business and safety reasons, dairy barns were allowed power, albeit from alternative energy sources such as diesel engines.

Increasingly, the Amish family values further set them apart from the American culture around them. Members are expected to marry and have families. Amish are only allowed to marry other Amish, although they may come from a different settlement. They conform to traditional gender roles and often have large families. Divorce is not allowed. In the home, an obscure German dialect called Pennsylvania Dutch (from Deutsch for German) is spoken.

A much debated custom is that of shunning. This is a discipline measure based on New Testament Bible passages used when a baptized member trespasses against the community. No other members, even spouses, are allowed contact while the offender is being shunned. But once the offender repents, he or she is readily forgiven and welcomed back into the community.