Now in the world people are beginning to separate themselves into communities and communities, tired of the world around them and striving to live with those with whom they have the same interests. And one of these communities is the Amish, who are currently one of the fastest growing religious communities. 
The Amish are Anabaptists, that is, Protestants who today accept baptism consciously. The original idea of the community is maximum protection from contact with the outside world and, in general, with moral violators. 
The movement originated with Mennonites in Holland and Germany, but today the largest community is in the United States. The most numerous settlements are observed in Pennsylvania and Ohio. And they grow, because in every family five or even more children are born. 
The main feature of the Amish is their rejection of all the benefits of modern society and modern technology. They engage in agriculture and farming, creating on their own everything they need for life. Accordingly, they do not pay taxes and do not receive social support. No Amish will benefit from insurance or a pension. 
The life of a classic Amish is based on "Ordnung" - this is such an unusual interpretation of Christian commandments and the Bible. “Ordnung” determines everything - hats, the color and style of clothing, even the width of the brim of a man’s hat. 
An Amish cannot drive a car, he can only drive a horse-drawn carriage. In Amish houses there are no household appliances, electricity, or the Internet. Well, this is how our ancestors lived with us, this is how the Amish live now. 
But among communities you can also find less orthodox ones. They may break some rules, such as having more or less modern equipment on the farm and they may even have a telephone booth. But other rules are certainly observed. And they, by the way, are staunch pacifists. 
The basic principle of the community is lack of vanity and equality. Their clothes are of the simplest style and muted colors. And of course homespun. No jewelry, no haircut or makeup allowed. After the wedding, a man stops shaving his beard. It is interesting that throughout the existence of the Amish, their clothing style has not changed. You should also not play musical instruments, as this is a method of self-expression and can stimulate feelings of pride and superiority. 
Children study in their own school until the 8th grade, where they are taught only the most necessary things. The Amish learn German. When a teenager reaches 16 years old, they begin the period of rumspring: when they are given a chance to try another life too. 
They can drink, smoke, try on modern clothes while being away from the community. And if a person decides to leave his large family after this, then he is forbidden to return. 90% of those who were allowed to “go crazy” return and are baptized. 
The community can punish for some sins. The first method is “avoidance,” when all members of society limit any contact with the offender in order to shame him and point out the mistake.
A more serious punishment is “excommunication.” Expulsion from the community and complete cessation of any contact. Even parents must stop communicating with their child during weaning. 
During the first month of marriage, the newlyweds’ bed is separated and every morning the bride’s mother checks to see if the husband has spoiled his young wife. 
They seem to be stuck and live outside of time. Year after year, decade after decade, nothing changes in their lives. In US cities there are more and more shops and markets selling only products made by the Amish. And their baked goods are considered the most delicious. 
By the way, their important difference from other Christians is that the Amish do not engage in missionary activities or evangelism. They are not trying to convert anyone and are not trying to increase congregations.
0 comments
