Back in the day, it was important, and more common, to be able to speak more than one language. These days, English is universal in business, science, and a myriad of other fields. For this reason, it’s become less important for people to know languages other than English. For the Amish, however, it is almost a rule that they all speak the mandatory three languages.
Firstly, there is the native German tongue, from which their traditions stem. Religious services and formal proceedings are, therefore, conducted in German. But there are two other common languages for the Amish.
Strange Dating Rules
In Western society, it’s a worry for many parents that their children are sexually active. Many parents will put obstacles in the way of it happening. But the Amish, on the contrary, allow their kids to “sleep” together. However, it’s not at all what you're thinking.
The Amish take dating quite seriously, and it involves a process known as “bundling” – a girl and a boy who are seeing each other share a bed one night. They are fully clothed, and not touching one another, but they sleep side by side. This practice is supposed to help strengthen their bond.
Three Strikes and You’re Out!
'Meidung' means someone is shunned by the Amish community. Depending on the crime they've committed, and its impact on the community, some members can even receive the almighty “Bann”, which sees them totally excommunicated.
Depending on the infraction, the shunning from the community can last as long as several months. While it may seem harsh, it is enforced to ensure that the individual can reflect on their wrongdoing and genuinely apologize.
Spare Time? No Worries!
The Amish are actually crazy about traditional board games! Considering they don’t have modern technology, or the likes of social media to take up their free time, this makes total sense.
Almost tailored for winter days around the hearth of a fire, the Amish are fans of Scrabble, Settlers of Catan and even Monopoly!
Are Mennonites Amish?
Now, it is important to note that not every person wearing a bonnet and simple clothing is Amish. Adopting a similar code of dress, as well as similar customs, are the Mennonites. While there are comparisons that can be made between the cultural groups, they are not the same.
The Mennonites are also a Christian group but are nowhere near as devout as the Amish. The Mennonites actually live in a more modern setting and don’t seclude themselves. The Mennonites are more tech-savvy and are even allowed to drive cars.