Excommunications

To be in a Bann or being an outsider is what people that have committed a crime in the Amish go through. This could go on for weeks, months or even years depending on how serious the crime actually is. After apologizing they are then allowed in where the wrong is not repeated.

Simple Clothes

amish

A big philosophy of the Amish is to live life equally as a community avoiding vanity and selfish motives. This is the main reason why men wear black pants with plain shirts and women wear simple dresses. Jewelry or make=up are far from allowed. They kind of have this uniform for themselves.

They Practice Inbreeding

amish

Since the community is very small, there is a high chance that you might end up with your cousins. this is not the first choice for everyone but it has occurred and is still occurring. If you are left with such a short list of options, this becomes the only solution.

No DNA Tests

Since there is no DNA testing in the Amish, people often end up marrying their third or fourth cousins. DNA tests are not allowed in the Amish. Even if there is such a case of inbreeding, the people see it as God’s plan and are okay with it.

Community Potlucks

amish

One very fun activity that occurs in the Amish community is the communal meal. Here the locals gather around for a grand dinner where everyone brings a dish or so to share on a huge table. It is a time to have conversations and catch up with one another. Fun right?

School Until 8th Grade

Amish

Education is not a priority in the Amish community like in the outside world. Kids go until the 8th grade after which high schools are no more. Women become housekeepers and men are expected to choose their careers for their future. They clearly do not put geometry or literature as a basic need for knowledge.