Many people consider the Amish community mysterious, with their covered wagons, pioneer-era clothing, and strict rules. But misconceptions about their traditions and daily life are prevalent. Let’s take a deeper look into what it’s really like to be a member of this unique society.
Complete Rejection of Technology
While it’s commonly believed that the Amish shun all modern technology, they actually make selective use of it. They aim to avoid technology that could disrupt their close-knit communities or self-reliant lifestyles. For instance, many Amish communities use diesel generators, hydraulic power, and even solar panels.
They Never Travel by Car
Although the Amish are known for traveling in horse-drawn buggies, they will hire drivers for long-distance travel or in emergencies. This practice allows them to connect with the wider world as necessary while adhering to community guidelines.
The Amish Don’t Pay Taxes
Contrary to popular belief, the Amish do pay state and federal income taxes, property taxes, and sales taxes. They are exempt from paying Social Security taxes due to their religious beliefs against insurance, relying instead on community support in times of need.
Amish People Are Uneducated
While Amish children typically attend school only through the eighth grade, this does not mean they are uneducated. Amish schools emphasize practical skills that are relevant to their way of life, focusing on farming, craftsmanship, and homemaking.
They Are Completely Isolated from Society
It’s a common misconception that the Amish live in complete isolation from the rest of society. While they do strive to separate themselves from many aspects of modern culture, they engage in commerce with non-Amish businesses and often participate in local markets.
All Amish Communities Are the Same
Amish practices vary significantly between different communities. Some are more conservative, sticking closely to old traditions, while others may adopt more modern conveniences. Each community determines its own rules and guidelines.
Amish People Can’t Use Electricity
Rather than a complete ban on electricity, most Amish communities avoid connecting to the public power grid. However, they use alternative forms of energy, such as solar power or generators, to operate necessary appliances and tools in their homes and businesses.
The Amish Language is Dutch
The primary language spoken by the Amish is Pennsylvania German, a.k.a. Pennsylvania Dutch. This language is a dialect of German that originated from various German-speaking regions of Europe. Young Amish are bilingual, often learning English when they start school, which is required for interacting with the non-Amish world.
Amish Avoid All Forms of Entertainment
The Amish lifestyle forbids television, radio, and the internet. Instead they enjoy singing, storytelling, playing musical instruments, and community events, such as barn raisings and quilting sessions.
Women Have No Role in Decision-Making
Although Amish society is patriarchal, women play a crucial role in decision-making within the family and community. Women manage household finances, make decisions regarding the home and children, and often operate their own businesses. Their input is valued in many aspects of community life.
Amish People Never Leave Their Community
While leaving the Amish community is rare and comes with significant social consequences, individuals do have the freedom to leave before they are baptized. The period known as Rumspringa in adolescence allows young Amish to experience the outside world before deciding to commit to the Amish lifestyle permanently. Those who choose to leave often face shunning.
The Amish Are Against All Forms of Modern Medicine
The Amish approach to health care is practical and cost-effective. They use modern medical services for serious health issues but prefer natural and home remedies when possible. Health insurance is avoided; instead, they rely on community-funded aid to assist with expenses.
Amish Furniture is Primitive
Amish furniture is highly valued for its craftsmanship, quality, and durability. Made by skilled artisans using traditional techniques, Amish furniture is sought after for its aesthetic appeal and high-quality materials. It’s attention to detail rivals mainstream commercial furniture.
The Amish Are Completely Self-Sufficient
While self-sufficiency is a significant aspect of Amish life, they do rely on the outside world for certain goods and services that they cannot produce themselves. This includes purchasing materials for their crafts, certain food products, and farming supplies.
Amish Do Not Believe in Photography
Most Amish are taught that photographs can cultivate personal vanity and draw attention to the individual, contrary to their teachings on humility. However, the rules around photography can vary; some may allow photos without posing, as long as it’s respectful and with understanding.
The Amish Community is Declining
Contrary to beliefs that the Amish way of life is dying out, their population is actually growing significantly. Due to large family sizes and a high rate of retention after youth choose to be baptized and remain in the community, the Amish population has been increasing.
Amish Only Wear Black and White
The misconception that Amish only wear black and white stems from their avoidance of flamboyant colors. In reality, their clothing can include a range of dark blues, greens, purples, and browns, all solid and muted tones that reflect their values of simplicity and humility.
Amish Children are Sheltered from the Outside World
While Amish children are raised within tightly knit communities and taught to follow specific religious and social practices, they are not completely sheltered from the outside world. During their schooling, they learn about the broader world to a degree that prepares them to interact with non-Amish when necessary.
All Amish Bake Their Bread
It’s a common image: the Amish baking their own bread daily. While many Amish do bake regularly using traditional methods, not all engage in this practice. Some may purchase bread from community bake sales or markets, especially in larger or more modern communities.
Amish People Are Pacifists
The Amish believe in avoiding confrontation and violence in resolving conflicts, relying on community arbitration and forgiveness. However, they do not typically take public stances on war or engage in political protests.
Amish Schools Are Primitive
Amish schools are designed to teach skills necessary for life in the Amish community, including practical mathematics, geography, and Amish history, alongside reading and writing. The curriculum is tailored to prepare children for life in their community.
Amish Women Are Not Allowed to Work Outside the Home
There’s a stereotype that Amish women are confined to domestic duties and cannot earn their own income. In reality, many Amish women contribute economically through a variety of means, including crafting, quilting, or managing roadside stands and markets.
