Amish Customs and Lifestyle

The Amish way of life is characterized by strict adherence to traditional practices and values. This page delves into some unique aspects of Amish culture and customs.

One notable aspect of Amish lifestyle is their stance on musical instruments. The Amish do not play any musical instruments, believing that they encourage self-expression, which could lead to pride and feelings of superiority. This practice aligns with their overall emphasis on humility and community over individuality.

Example: Instead of instrumental music, the Amish often engage in a cappella singing during their church services and gatherings.

Amish women play a crucial role in maintaining the household and community. Their primary responsibilities include cooking, performing home chores, and helping neighbors. This division of labor reflects the traditional gender roles that are central to Amish values.

Highlight: The role of Amish women as homemakers is an integral part of their community structure and way of life.

The concept of "shunning" is an important disciplinary measure in Amish communities. In serious cases, members can be excommunicated and banished from the community. This practice extends even to family relationships, with parents required to avoid contact with excommunicated children to maintain the community's integrity.

Vocabulary: Shunning refers to the practice of avoiding or ostracizing individuals who have violated community rules or norms.

In public settings, Amish women generally follow their husband's lead, reflecting the patriarchal structure of their society. This practice is part of the broader Amish values system that emphasizes order and hierarchy within the family and community.

Amish Population Growth and Cultural Practices

This page explores the Amish community's growth, their unique cultural practices, and their interactions with the outside world.

In Amish culture, there is a distinct separation between their community and the rest of society. Interestingly, they refer to all non-Amish individuals as "English people," regardless of their actual nationality or origin. This practice underscores the Amish's sense of cultural distinctiveness.

Highlight: The term "English" in Amish parlance refers to anyone who is not Amish, emphasizing their cultural separation.

The Amish community experiences significant population growth due to high retention rates. An estimated 80-90% of Amish children choose to stay within the church when they grow up. This remarkable retention rate leads to the Amish population doubling in size approximately every 20 years.

Example: If an Amish community had 1,000 members in 2000, it could potentially grow to 2,000 members by 2020, assuming typical retention and birth rates.

Photography is generally discouraged in Amish culture, as it is seen as a form of vanity. However, some Amish may agree to be photographed if it's in a natural setting or if their faces are hidden. This practice reflects their commitment to humility and their desire to avoid pride.

For those wishing to join the Amish community, there is a specific process to follow. Prospective members must learn the Pennsylvania German dialect, abandon their previous lifestyle, and undergo a period of adaptation. After this time, the Amish community votes on whether to admit the new member.

Vocabulary: Pennsylvania German, also known as Pennsylvania Dutch, is a variety of West Central German spoken by the Amish and other groups in North America.