Wisconsin farm

Frequently Asked Questions About the Amish

We have been focusing on the background of the Amish this month and general information about them. I thought that this week and next week, I’d answer some FAQ. Remember, these answers are based on my experience–yours might be different and certainly some of what you read will come from a different perspective.

• Do the Amish try to justify their use of phones, electricity, cars out of their house instead of inside of their house and transportation when needed for longer distances? Each community decides how much technology to “allow” and this becomes their Ordnung, or unwritten rules. The local bishop then helps to implement those rules. Exceptions are allowed when it’s deemed good and necessary for the community (for example, a midwife carrying a pager or cell phone). The Amish I’ve spoken with have stressed that the main point is the health of the community and the well-being of the family. For instance, a phone in the house is a constant disruption and they wouldn’t allow that, but a phone in a workshop might be necessary for business.
• What is the difference between the Pennsylvania Dutch and the Amish? Pennsylvania Dutch actually refers to a dialect that most Amish speak – it comes from early German settlers in the Pennsylvania area.
• Do the Amish participate in athletic sports programs between schools? No, at least not in the communities that I’ve visited. Amish do play volleyball, baseball or softball, and even ice hokey – but it is less competitive. For instance, they usually do not keep score.
• Do the Amish use lots of butter in their cooking? I believe they do! The Amish are much like my grandmother–they think fresh, rich butter is good for you! Not too long ago I read, “Ask an Amish person if they prefer butter over margarine and they mighty reply — I trust a cow more than a chemist.” Plus many Amish own a dairy cow, so they can get milk and butter for free.
• Are rings exchanged at wedding services? No. The Amish do not wear jewelry of any sort.

I’ll have more FAQ next week. If there’s anything you’d like to know, leave it in the COMMENT section (button is next to the title of this blog). Also, check out my piece on the Amish fiction blog where I answered a few additional questions.

Blessings,

V

ps – A Promise for Miriam is on sale for $10 this month, only when ordered from me personally. Click here and use the BUY NOW button.