Common Misunderstandings About the Amish

The Amish way of life is often misunderstood as a community frozen in time rather than a thriving community that seeks a simpler way. There are values behind those charming bonnets and horse-drawn carriages. Let’s look at 18 misconceptions about the Amish.

No Taxes

They are exempt from some taxes, but not all. News Week Me says, “Amish people do not pay social security taxes due to the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993.” But they still pay income, property, public school, and sales taxes.

All Amish Are Farmers

Not all Amish are farmers. While many Amish families do cultivate the land, it’s far from their only trade. Carpentry, construction, and even manufacturing thrive in Amish communities, proving they’re much more than just farmers in straw hats.

They Speak Old English

While their Pennsylvania Dutch dialect may sound unique, it’s actually a German dialect, not an archaic form of English. They also speak fluent English, which is essential when interacting with those outside their community. Their language is a fascinating part of their heritage, but it’s definitely not Shakespearean English!

Amish Spring Break

Contrary to popular belief, Rumspringa is not about encouraging wild behavior and is far from the Amish equivalent of spring break. While Amish teenagers are given more freedom to explore the outside during this period, which starts at 16 years old, they are still accountable to their parents.

No Electricity

They don’t shun all forms of electricity; many Amish communities selectively use batteries, generators, and even solar power. It’s less about rejecting technology outright and more about maintaining control over their lives and avoiding dependency on outside sources, like the public power grid.

Mafia

Reality TV shows like Amish Mafia might be entertaining, but they’re far from an accurate portrayal of Amish life. The vast majority of Amish communities are peaceful and law-abiding, with strong values of non-violence and community support.

Don’t Celebrate Holidays

Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving hold religious significance for many Amish, but their celebrations often focus on simple traditions, faith-based reflection, and spending quality time with loved ones. It won’t be celebrated with lavish gifts, but they do celebrate similar holidays as everyone else.

No Doctors

The NCBI maintains that they will “use modern medicine, such as a general practitioner, specialist, or surgeon, when necessary, as with obstetrical and traumatic needs.” When they do, it is often a community effort, with everyone coming together to help foot the bill.

Total Isolation

Amish communities might intentionally separate from mainstream society in some ways, but they’re far from hermits. They interact with outsiders for business, trade, and even occasional social events. They also engage with current events and global issues, albeit through the lens of their own values.

No Color

Their clothing isn’t devoid of color. Hand-sewn dresses and shirts often boast vibrant hues, adding a personal touch to their otherwise simple attire. Aprons and hats tend to remain neutral, but women often express their creativity through quilting, crafting stunning geometric patterns in a kaleidoscope of colors.

Their Culture Is Dying

Numbers are not dwindling; on the contrary, they seem to be on the rise. The Daily Yonder reports, “Statistics show that the population nearly doubles every 20 years.” This is credited to their retention rate of young people and their value of having large families.

They Have Dutch Origins

Not quite; their roots trace back to Switzerland and parts of Germany. They migrated to Pennsylvania in the 18th century seeking religious freedom, bringing their unique language and traditions with them. So, while they’ve certainly made a home in the U.S., their heritage is European.

They Don’t Appreciate Women

Even though they have a patriarchal structure, women still play a vital role in their communities. Women are active partners in managing family farms, often holding significant decision-making power over finances, and contribute to household income through various activities.

There’s No Community Variation

Both Amish and Mennonites share a common Anabaptist heritage, but the Amish branched off in the 17th century, forming their own distinct groups. They share similarities, but key differences exist. The main distinction lies in their embrace of technology and spreading their religion globally vs. locally.

The Men Wear Beards

Not all males have beards; actually, Amish men don’t grow beards until they get married. It’s an indication of the passage from boyhood to adulthood. Amish males who are single don’t wear beards. Interestingly, there’s no other way to determine whether an Amish man is married.

No Money

Just because they prioritize community over material possessions, they certainly still use and manage money. They participate in the local economy, run businesses, and engage in trade. So, while their lifestyle may differ from mainstream society, they’re not living in a cashless utopia.

They Can’t Ride a Car

They are more likely to choose a horse and cart to own than a car, but they are occasionally passengers in a car. They’re willing to utilize modern transportation and hire a driver when the need arises. Amish America says that Amish will “ride in motor vehicles when traveling to visit family in another state.”

They Have Churches

While you won’t find towering steeples in Amish country, it’s not because they’re skipping services. Instead of dedicated church buildings, their living rooms become holy spaces every other Sunday. It’s a testament to their belief that faith is lived out daily, not confined to a specific place.

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