What Religion Are the Amish? Exploring Their Faith, Practices, and Distinctive Lifestyle
What Religion Are the Amish?
The Amish are a traditionalist Christian group known for their simple living, plain dress, and reluctance to adopt many conveniences of modern technology. At their core, **what religion are the Amish?** They are adherents of a specific branch of Anabaptist Christianity. This foundational understanding is crucial to grasping their unique worldview and practices. My own initial encounters with the Amish, perhaps like many others, involved seeing them at farmers’ markets, their horse-drawn buggies a striking contrast to the usual hustle and bustle of everyday life. This visual distinctiveness naturally sparks curiosity about their beliefs and, fundamentally, their religion.
To truly answer “what religion are the Amish,” we must delve deeper than a simple label. Their faith is not just a set of doctrines; it’s a lived experience, a commitment to a specific interpretation of biblical teachings that shapes every facet of their existence. It’s about community, humility, separation from the world, and a profound reliance on God’s will. Understanding this interconnectedness is key to appreciating why they live as they do. This article aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of the Amish religion, offering insights into their origins, core beliefs, unique practices, and the challenges they navigate in a rapidly changing world.
The Roots of the Amish Faith: Anabaptist Origins
To understand **what religion are the Amish**, it’s essential to trace their roots back to the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century. The Amish faith emerged from the Anabaptist movement, a radical wing of the Reformation that advocated for practices and beliefs that set them apart from both the Catholic Church and the mainstream Protestant reformers like Martin Luther and John Calvin. The term “Anabaptist” literally means “re-baptizer,” a reference to their belief in adult baptism (believer’s baptism) as opposed to infant baptism, which was the norm at the time. They believed that baptism should only be administered to individuals who had made a conscious decision to follow Christ.
This emphasis on personal conviction and a voluntary commitment to faith was a cornerstone of Anabaptist theology. However, this doctrine was highly controversial and seen as heretical by both Catholic and Protestant authorities. Anabaptists faced severe persecution, including imprisonment, torture, and execution. They were often forced to meet in secret, further solidifying their sense of community and their reliance on each other.
Jakob Ammann and the Amish Schism
The specific identity of the Amish people solidified in the late 17th century due to a schism within the Swiss and Alsatian Mennonite communities. A significant figure in this separation was Jakob Ammann, a Mennonite bishop from the Emmental region of Switzerland. Ammann believed that the Mennonites had become too lax in their discipline and were not adhering strictly enough to biblical principles of separation from the world and the practice of the “Meidung” (shunning or excommunication) of those who strayed from the community’s norms.
Ammann advocated for stricter adherence to traditional practices, including more rigorous application of the Meidung, particularly concerning those who associated with excommunicated members. He also introduced practices such as the stricter enforcement of foot washing during communion and the observance of communion only once a year. These points of contention, along with differences in the enforcement of church discipline and the degree of separation from the “English” (non-Amish) world, led to a formal split in the Mennonite church around 1693. Those who followed Jakob Ammann became known as “Amish,” a name derived from his own. It’s important to note that this was not a divergence in fundamental Christian doctrine as much as a difference in the practical application of church discipline and separation from secular society. This historical split directly answers the question of **what religion are the Amish** by pinpointing their specific origin within the broader Anabaptist tradition.
Core Beliefs of the Amish Religion
Understanding **what religion are the Amish** involves exploring their core beliefs, which are deeply rooted in their interpretation of the Bible. While they share many fundamental Christian doctrines with other denominations, their emphasis and practical application of these beliefs set them apart. These tenets guide their daily lives, their community interactions, and their relationship with God.
The Bible as the Ultimate Authority
For the Amish, the Bible, particularly the New Testament, is the infallible word of God and the ultimate guide for faith and life. They interpret biblical passages very literally and strive to live according to what they believe are Christ’s direct teachings. This literal interpretation is a driving force behind many of their distinctive practices, such as their commitment to non-resistance and their emphasis on humility.
One of the most influential texts for the Amish is the “Ausbund,” a hymnbook that dates back to 1564 and is one of the oldest Protestant hymnals still in use. It contains hymns that focus on martyrdom, suffering, and separation from the world, reflecting the early Anabaptist experience. The Ausbund is not just a book of songs; it is seen as a spiritual resource that reinforces their commitment to their faith in the face of adversity.
Ordnung: The Unwritten Code of Conduct
While the Bible is the ultimate authority, the practical application of its principles within the Amish community is governed by the “Ordnung.” The Ordnung is an unwritten, uncodified set of rules and expectations that guides the daily life of Amish members. It is specific to each Amish church district and can vary significantly from one community to another. The Ordnung dictates everything from acceptable forms of dress and technology use to social customs and rules for marriage and family life.
The Ordnung is not static; it is developed and maintained through consensus within the church community. It is a living document, in a sense, that evolves over time, albeit very slowly and cautiously. The primary purpose of the Ordnung is to maintain the community’s separation from the “English” world and to promote humility, obedience, and mutual aid. Adherence to the Ordnung is considered a sign of commitment to the faith and the community. This concept is central to understanding **what religion are the Amish** and how it manifests in their day-to-day lives.
Humility (Demut) and Non-Resistance (Gelassenheit)
Two of the most defining virtues in Amish life are “Demut” (humility) and “Gelassenheit” (which is often translated as submission, yielding, surrender, or self-abandonment, and encompasses non-resistance). Humility is the cornerstone of their worldview. It means recognizing one’s dependence on God and not drawing undue attention to oneself. This principle directly informs their plain dress, their avoidance of elaborate homes and possessions, and their reluctance to seek positions of leadership or public recognition.
Gelassenheit is a profound concept that involves yielding oneself to God’s will, to the community, and to the Ordnung. It’s about letting go of personal pride and desires for the greater good of the collective and for obedience to divine authority. This principle is the basis for their commitment to non-resistance. They believe that they should not engage in violence or lawsuits, nor should they participate in military service. This is a direct interpretation of Christ’s teachings on turning the other cheek. When asked **what religion are the Amish**, their commitment to these virtues is a key identifier.
Community and Mutual Aid
The Amish place a very high value on community and mutual aid. They believe that members of the church are called to support each other in times of need. This principle of “Meiding” (mutual aid) is a practical application of their faith. When a barn burns down, for example, neighbors and members of the wider community will often come together to help rebuild it. This is not seen as charity but as a natural outflow of their Christian duty and their understanding of community interdependence. This strong sense of collective responsibility is a vital part of their religious practice and social fabric.
This mutual support extends beyond material needs. The community provides spiritual and emotional support as well. The elders guide the younger generations, and the shared experience of adhering to the Ordnung fosters a deep sense of belonging and shared purpose. Their emphasis on community is a direct reflection of their understanding of the Church as the Body of Christ.
Separation from the World
A fundamental tenet of the Amish religion is the belief that Christians should remain separate from the “world” or secular society. This separation is not about physical isolation in remote locations, but rather about maintaining a distinct lifestyle and worldview that is not influenced by the values and practices of mainstream culture. This is a direct interpretation of biblical passages such as “Come out from among them and be separate” (2 Corinthians 6:17).
This separation is manifested in numerous ways, including their clothing, their technology choices, their educational system, and their avoidance of certain legal and governmental obligations. The goal is to protect the community from the perceived corrupting influences of modern society and to maintain a focus on spiritual matters. Understanding this concept of separation is crucial to understanding **what religion are the Amish** and why they make the choices they do.
Distinctive Practices of the Amish Faith
The unique practices of the Amish are perhaps what most readily distinguish them to outsiders. These practices are not arbitrary; they are deeply intertwined with their core beliefs and are governed by their Ordnung. Exploring these practices provides a tangible understanding of **what religion are the Amish** in action.
Plain Dress
The Amish are well-known for their distinctive plain dress. This is a direct application of the principle of humility and separation from the world. Men typically wear solid-colored shirts, trousers, suspenders, and broad-brimmed hats. They do not shave their beards after marriage, as it is seen as a symbol of manhood and maturity. Women wear long, solid-colored dresses with long sleeves, aprons, and a cape and bonnet. The colors are usually subdued, and elaborate ornamentation is avoided.
The specific style and colors of clothing can vary slightly between different church districts, but the underlying principle remains the same: to avoid vanity and to present a humble appearance. The clothing serves as a visual symbol of their commitment to their faith and their separation from the prevailing fashion trends of the outside world. This shared attire fosters a sense of unity and belonging within the community.
Technology and the “English” World
One of the most discussed aspects of Amish life is their selective use of technology. The Amish do not reject all modern technology outright, but they carefully consider its potential impact on their way of life and their community. The decision of whether to adopt a particular technology is made by the church community and is guided by the Ordnung.
Generally, technologies that are seen as promoting individual independence, isolation, or that are overly connected to the outside world are rejected or restricted. For example, most Amish households do not have electricity from the public grid, as it is seen as too integrated with the modern world and could lead to increased reliance on outside conveniences. They often use propane or natural gas for heating and cooking, and kerosene lamps for lighting. They also do not typically own personal computers, televisions, or radios.
However, their approach is not absolute. Some Amish communities may allow the use of telephones, but often they are placed in a common area or a small shed outside the house to discourage casual, individual use and to maintain a sense of community. Business or farm operations might have more exceptions, often using generators for power or specific types of machinery that are deemed acceptable. The key principle is that technology should serve the community and not lead to a breakdown of their established way of life and their separation from the world. This nuanced approach to technology is a critical element in answering **what religion are the Amish** and how they integrate their faith with daily life.
Education and the Amish School System
Amish children typically attend private, one-room schoolhouses operated by the Amish community, often through the eighth grade. The curriculum focuses on basic literacy, arithmetic, and practical skills relevant to farming and homemaking. The Amish believe that formal education beyond the eighth grade is unnecessary for their way of life and could expose their children to ideas and values that contradict their faith. This approach is not a rejection of education itself, but a deliberate choice to maintain control over the content and values their children are exposed to.
The Ordnung dictates the educational philosophy, and the teachers are usually members of the community. The goal is to equip children with the knowledge and skills they need to live productive lives within the Amish faith and to prepare them for baptism and membership in the church. While they do not pursue higher education, the Amish are known for their strong work ethic and their ability to learn practical skills through apprenticeship and experience.
Marriage and Family Life
Marriage is a sacred covenant within the Amish faith, and it is understood as a lifelong union between a man and a woman. While the state recognizes Amish marriages, the Amish consider their marriages to be primarily a commitment before God and the community. Marriage is expected to occur within the Amish faith; marrying an “English” person is generally not permitted and would lead to excommunication.
The family is the fundamental unit of Amish society. Children are raised in the traditions of the faith, and family members are expected to support each other. The father is typically the head of the household, and the mother is responsible for managing the home and raising the children. Large families are common and are seen as a blessing from God. This emphasis on family reinforces the community structure and ensures the continuation of their religious traditions.
Church Services (Gottesdienst)
Amish church services, known as “Gottesdienst” (Divine Service), are typically held in private homes or in barns, alternating between members’ homes. Services are usually conducted every two weeks, allowing for time for fellowship and community activities on the alternate Sundays. This practice of holding services in homes is a direct continuation of early Christian practices and reinforces the idea of the church as the community of believers gathered together, rather than a formal building.
The services are conducted in German (Pennsylvania Dutch dialect) and are known for their length and congregational singing of hymns from the Ausbund without musical accompaniment. There are no musical instruments used in Amish worship. The service typically includes scripture readings, sermons delivered by ministers or deacons, and prayers. The emphasis is on the spoken word and communal participation. Following the service, a shared meal is usually provided, fostering further fellowship and strengthening community bonds. This communal gathering is central to understanding **what religion are the Amish** and how they practice their faith communally.
The “Rumspringa” Period
One of the most misunderstood aspects of Amish life is the period known as “Rumspringa” (literally “running around”). This is a time, typically in the late teenage years, when young Amish individuals are given more freedom to experience the outside world before they are expected to make a lifelong commitment to baptism and membership in the church. Contrary to popular belief, Rumspringa is not an endorsement of wild behavior; rather, it is a period of exploration and decision-making.
During Rumspringa, young people might experiment with certain aspects of “English” culture, such as wearing more modern clothing, attending secular events, or even driving cars. However, the extent to which this occurs varies greatly among different Amish communities. For many, it is a time of quiet reflection and learning about the world before consciously choosing to embrace the Amish way of life. The vast majority of young people who go through Rumspringa ultimately choose baptism and join the church, demonstrating the strong influence of their upbringing and community ties. This period highlights the voluntary nature of Amish church membership and is a crucial part of understanding the commitment involved in **what religion are the Amish**.
Diversity Within the Amish Community
It is important to recognize that the Amish are not a monolithic group. While they share core beliefs and many common practices, there is significant diversity among different Amish church districts. This diversity stems from variations in their Ordnung and their willingness to adapt to changing times.
“Old Order” Amish versus More Progressive Groups
The most widely recognized group are the “Old Order” Amish, who adhere to the strictest interpretations of the Ordnung and are most resistant to adopting modern technologies and practices. They are the ones most often associated with horse-and-buggy transportation and plain dress.
However, there are also more progressive Amish groups. These groups might permit certain technologies, such as limited use of electricity or telephones, or have slightly different interpretations of dress codes. These variations are often the result of careful deliberation within church communities, weighing the potential benefits and risks of adopting new practices. Even within these groups, the core principles of humility, separation, and community remain paramount.
Geographical Variations
The Amish population is spread across numerous states in the United States and parts of Canada, and regional differences can influence practices. Communities in more rural or isolated areas might maintain more traditional practices, while those in areas with more interaction with the outside world might see slightly more adaptation. These geographical nuances contribute to the rich tapestry of Amish life and further illustrate that when considering **what religion are the Amish**, it’s a spectrum of practice rooted in common belief.
The Amish and the Outside World
The relationship between the Amish and the non-Amish world, often referred to as the “English,” is complex and multifaceted. While they strive for separation, they are not entirely isolated and interact with the English world in various ways.
Economic Interactions
Many Amish are involved in agriculture, farming small to medium-sized farms. They also excel in various crafts and businesses, such as furniture making, quilt making, woodworking, and operating small businesses like bakeries and roadside stands. These enterprises often serve the broader community, providing goods and services that are appreciated for their quality and craftsmanship.
These economic interactions allow the Amish to earn a livelihood while adhering to their principles. They often hire non-Amish workers or employees in their businesses, creating opportunities for cultural exchange. However, they carefully manage these interactions to minimize exposure to potentially disruptive influences.
Legal and Governmental Interactions
The Amish have a complex relationship with government regulations. Their commitment to non-resistance means they generally do not participate in military service. They are exempt from Social Security taxes, as they believe their community provides for their own elderly and disabled. They also have a unique approach to compulsory education, as mentioned earlier, which has led to legal challenges in the past. In these instances, Amish leaders often engage in dialogue with government officials to find accommodations that respect their religious convictions.
Challenges and Adaptations
Living in the 21st century presents ongoing challenges for the Amish. Balancing their commitment to tradition with the ever-increasing pace of modern life requires constant discernment. The pressures from the outside world, including economic shifts, cultural influences, and the increasing prevalence of technology, can pose significant tests to their way of life.
However, the Amish have demonstrated a remarkable capacity for resilience and adaptation within the framework of their faith. They carefully consider new developments and make decisions collectively to preserve their core values. Their ability to maintain their distinct identity and religious practices in a rapidly changing world is a testament to their strong community bonds and their deep-rooted faith. This ongoing process of discernment and adaptation is a vital part of understanding **what religion are the Amish** today.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Amish Religion
How do the Amish make decisions about technology?
The decision-making process regarding technology among the Amish is a communal one, guided by the “Ordnung” and overseen by church leaders and bishops. It’s not an individual choice. When a new technology emerges, such as the internet or cell phones, it’s typically discussed at church meetings. The leadership and members of the congregation will deliberate on its potential impact on their way of life, their community, and their commitment to separation from the world.
Several factors are considered. Does the technology promote individual independence or isolation? Does it encourage excessive communication with the outside world? Does it lead to vanity or the pursuit of worldly pleasures? If the technology is deemed to be detrimental to the community’s spiritual well-being or their adherence to the Ordnung, it will generally be rejected or heavily restricted. For instance, while some communities might permit business phones in a shared location, personal cell phones for constant individual use are usually not allowed. The goal is always to preserve their distinct identity and values. This careful and communal approach to technology is a hallmark of their faith and directly answers a part of **what religion are the Amish** in practice.
Why do the Amish use horse and buggy?
The use of the horse and buggy is a visible symbol of the Amish commitment to separation from the modern world and their embrace of a simpler, more community-oriented lifestyle. It’s not simply a matter of nostalgia or a lack of access to automobiles; it’s a deliberate religious choice. Owning and operating cars would signify a level of independence and mobility that the Amish believe could lead to excessive interaction with the “English” world and a weakening of community ties.
Cars can also be seen as representing pride and worldliness, which are contrary to the Amish virtues of humility and Gelassenheit (yielding and submission). Furthermore, the slower pace of travel enforced by horse and buggy encourages interaction and conversation among those traveling together and with those they meet along the way, reinforcing community bonds. While some Amish businesses may use trucks or vans for hauling goods, personal automobile ownership is generally not permitted by the Old Order Amish. This reliance on the horse and buggy is a core element of understanding **what religion are the Amish** and their commitment to a particular way of life.
What is the role of the bishop and ministers in the Amish church?
Within the Amish church structure, there are typically three ordained positions: the bishop, the minister (or preacher), and the deacon. The bishop holds the highest authority and presides over church services and ordinations. They are responsible for guiding the congregation, interpreting the Ordnung, and ensuring that church discipline is maintained. The bishop’s role is crucial in mediating disputes and making final decisions on matters of church policy.
Ministers are responsible for preaching sermons and assisting the bishop in spiritual guidance. They are often chosen from within the congregation and are seen as spiritual leaders who can effectively communicate biblical teachings and exhort members to live according to the faith. Deacons serve to assist the ministers and bishops, often with responsibilities related to caring for the poor, visiting the sick, and maintaining order during services. The selection of these leaders is a solemn process, often involving fasting and prayer, as the Amish believe that God guides the selection of those who will lead their flock. This spiritual leadership is fundamental to understanding **what religion are the Amish** and how their faith is structured and guided.
What happens if an Amish person chooses to leave the church?
Choosing to leave the Amish church is a profound and serious decision with significant consequences. If an individual decides to be baptized into the Amish church, they are making a lifelong commitment. If they later choose to leave, they are considered to have broken their covenant with God and the community. According to Amish tradition, such individuals are then subject to the “Meidung,” or shunning.
Shunning involves social and economic separation from the individual. Family members will continue to acknowledge them and offer basic familial support (like providing food), but they are not to engage in close fellowship, eat together at the same table, or conduct business with them. This is a difficult and painful consequence, designed to encourage the individual to repent and return to the church. However, for those who remain steadfast in their decision to leave, they are expected to become self-sufficient in the “English” world. The decision to leave is not taken lightly, and the community’s response reflects their deep commitment to maintaining the purity and integrity of the church.
What are the Amish views on healthcare?
The Amish approach to healthcare is rooted in their belief in mutual aid and community responsibility. They generally believe in seeking medical care when needed, but their decisions are often influenced by their religious convictions and their community’s guidelines. Many Amish are covered by a community-based health insurance plan, where members contribute to a fund to help cover the medical expenses of fellow community members.
This system reflects their principle of “Meiding” (mutual aid). While they may utilize modern medical treatments, including surgery and hospital care, they might have reservations about certain advanced technologies or life-sustaining treatments if they are perceived as prolonging suffering unnecessarily or going against God’s will. They also tend to avoid participation in government healthcare programs like Medicare or Medicaid, preferring to rely on their own community support systems. Decisions about medical care are often made in consultation with family and church elders. This practical application of their faith in healthcare is a key aspect of **what religion are the Amish** and their daily lived experience.
How do the Amish view the Bible?
For the Amish, the Bible is the divinely inspired word of God and the ultimate authority for all matters of faith and life. They hold a high view of biblical inerrancy and infallibility, meaning they believe the Bible is without error in its original manuscripts and provides a truthful and reliable guide for living. Their interpretation of the Bible tends to be literal, especially concerning the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament.
Key biblical themes that shape Amish belief include the importance of humility, obedience to God’s will, separation from the world, mutual love and support within the community, and non-resistance. They draw heavily on passages that speak to living a simple, Christ-like life, such as the Sermon on the Mount. The Bible is not just a theological text; it is a practical manual for daily living, guiding their decisions from what they wear to how they interact with others. This profound reverence for scripture is fundamental to understanding **what religion are the Amish**.
Do the Amish celebrate holidays?
The Amish do celebrate certain Christian holidays, but their observances are often simpler and more focused on the religious significance than on the commercial aspects prevalent in mainstream culture. Major holidays like Christmas and Easter are observed. Christmas is celebrated as the birth of Jesus, and Easter commemorates His resurrection.
However, you won’t find elaborate decorations, gift-giving on a large scale, or Santa Claus. Their celebrations tend to be family-centered and involve special church services. Thanksgiving is also observed, often as a day for family gatherings and giving thanks to God. While they may not participate in secular holidays like Halloween, they do observe Harvest Festivals in some communities. Their focus remains on the spiritual meaning of these occasions, aligning with their broader commitment to simplicity and devotion.
What is the Amish understanding of salvation?
The Amish understand salvation as a process that involves God’s grace, faith in Jesus Christ, and obedience to God’s will as expressed in the Bible and lived out through the community’s Ordnung. They believe that salvation is not earned by good works alone, but rather by God’s grace, which is made available through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
However, they also emphasize that true faith must be demonstrated through a life of obedience and adherence to the teachings of Christ and the church. Baptism marks a public commitment to follow Christ and to live within the community’s teachings. While they do not typically engage in elaborate theological debates about predestination or eternal security in the way some other Christian denominations do, their focus is on living a life that reflects God’s will and striving for holiness within the community. The emphasis is on living out one’s faith actively and obediently, trusting in God’s mercy for final salvation.
What is the Pennsylvania Dutch dialect?
The Pennsylvania Dutch dialect is a Germanic language spoken by many Amish communities. It is not “Dutch” in the sense of the language spoken in the Netherlands, but rather a descendant of the Palatinate German dialect spoken in southwestern Germany, which is where many early Amish settlers originated. Over generations, it has evolved with influences from English and other languages, creating a unique dialect.
Pennsylvania Dutch serves as the primary language of communication within many Amish households and communities. It is used in informal conversations, during church services (alongside High German for scripture readings and sermons), and in daily interactions. While most Amish also speak English to interact with the outside world, Pennsylvania Dutch remains a vital part of their cultural and religious identity, fostering a strong sense of shared heritage and belonging. Understanding this linguistic aspect is crucial to appreciating the cultural context of **what religion are the Amish**.
Do Amish have funerals?
Yes, the Amish have funerals, and these are significant community events that reflect their faith and values. Funerals are typically held in the home of the deceased or in a church if one is available (though most Old Order Amish churches do not have dedicated church buildings). The service is conducted in German (Pennsylvania Dutch) and is characterized by simplicity and reverence.
The focus of Amish funerals is on commending the soul to God and on the community’s grief and support for the bereaved family. Hymns are sung congregationally from the Ausbund, and sermons are delivered by the ministers and bishop. There is generally no viewing of the body prior to the service, and embalming is usually avoided. Burial takes place in simple coffins, often made by members of the community, in plain cemeteries. The entire process is a demonstration of their commitment to simplicity, community support, and their faith in the afterlife.
Conclusion: The Enduring Faith of the Amish
In answer to the question, “**what religion are the Amish?**” they are a devout Christian group adhering to a distinctive branch of Anabaptist tradition. Their faith is not merely a set of beliefs but a deeply integrated way of life, characterized by humility, obedience to God’s word, separation from the secular world, and profound commitment to community. From their plain dress and selective technology use to their unique educational and church practices, every aspect of Amish life is a testament to their dedication to living according to their understanding of biblical principles.
While the modern world continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, the Amish have demonstrated an enduring capacity to maintain their unique identity and religious convictions. Their approach to life, while seemingly simple to outsiders, is one of immense spiritual depth and communal strength. They offer a compelling example of a community that prioritizes faith, family, and mutual support above the fleeting trends and conveniences of contemporary society. Their continued existence and their unwavering commitment to their religious principles serve as a powerful reminder of the diverse ways in which faith can shape and sustain human lives.
