Buzz
If you've visited rural areas in the United States, you may have heard the terms "Amish" and "Mennonite". In essence, both groups share a religious heritage and similar beliefs, but recognizing the differences can be challenging for outsiders. This guide will help you identify the key distinctions between them.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
- Both groups originated from the Anabaptist movement, but the Amish separated due to differences in their adherence to founding principles.
- The Amish are known for their simple attire and withdrawal from modern society, while Mennonites wear conventional clothing and actively participate in the broader community.
- New Order Amish are more open to societal integration, whereas Old Order Mennonites maintain a more traditional lifestyle. If you're unsure whether someone is Amish or Mennonite, simply ask them directly.
Steps
Understand the Origins
Initially, there were no distinct Mennonites or Amish; they were simply Anabaptists. However, in the 1500s in Holland, Menno Simons became a prominent figure among the Anabaptists. Roughly a century later, a Swiss Anabaptist named Jacob Ammon began teaching that the original Anabaptist principles were no longer being upheld, leading his followers to form a separate group known as the Amish. Those who continued following the earlier teachings of Menno Simons became known as Mennonites.
Learn the Historical Context
Both the Amish and Mennonites share a common origin in the Anabaptist movement, a Protestant group that emerged in the 1500s. The Amish separated from the Mennonites in the late 1600s due to disagreements over how closely the Mennonites were adhering to the Anabaptist principles. The core tenets of Anabaptism include:
- Religion is a personal decision for adults, as opposed to the practice of infant baptism in Catholicism.
- Strong devotion to God.
- Rejection of secular culture, such as popular media and non-religious entertainment.
Examine Clothing and Hairstyles
The Amish adhere to simple clothing in solid, muted colors. Men typically wear black pants and a variety of shirts, along with straw hats, while women dress in long dresses with aprons and wear bonnets. The men often sport beards without mustaches and have bowl cuts, while women tend to keep their hair in buns. In contrast, most Mennonites wear conventional clothes and hairstyles, blending seamlessly into modern society.
Understand Their Way of Life
The Amish prefer to distance themselves from contemporary society. They do not drive cars or use electricity in their homes. Higher education is generally not pursued, and the men often engage in farming or woodworking. Religious services are held in private homes or barns, and the Amish tend to live in tight-knit rural communities. They are averse to having their pictures taken, so please respect this. Mennonites, however, are more involved in mainstream society.
Be Aware of the Variations
While the Amish generally shun modern technology, many have telephones located at the edge of their properties, and other modern amenities are within reach. Some groups, like the New Order Amish, are largely integrated with mainstream society. Additionally, there are the Old Order Mennonites, who maintain simple clothing and reject modern innovations. If all of this seems confusing, don't worry—it’s understandable.
Simply Ask
If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask. Approach the person with politeness and respect, and they will likely be happy to share the information with you.
