‘Meidung’ and ‘Ordnung’ are terms that you definitely don’t want to hear when you’re living in an Amish community. It comes as no surprise that the Amish people have a number of rules and regulations when dealing with their lifestyle and the customs they keep. But despite these rules, the Amish are in fact interested in the individual coming to their own personal conclusions without interference.
But of course, for those who overstep the line, there are consequences. In Amish terms, an individual, if in violation of Amish ethics or the code, is then deemed Ordnung. And if a person keeps misbehaving after punishment, they can be deemed ‘Meidung’, which basically means that they’re banished from the community!
The Beards
The Amish are usually instantly recognizable due to their external appearance. How can you possibly go past those incredible beards the Amish men sport?! Again, the Amish uphold the belief that they should live as God created them – and they keep this commandment when it comes to shaving. The only exception is their mustache. But again, there is a reason for this: back in the 1800s, about 100 years after the church began in 1693, mustaches were more than a style.
Back then, mustaches were synonymous with wealth and high standing, as well as being part of the military. Of course, the Amish, who were devoted to a simpler, non-military lifestyle, lost the mustache - but kept the beard. Hence the clean upper lip, and bushy beard!
The Amazing Race
An Amish honeymoon is comprised of many activities, in different locations. It sounds like a treasure hunt, or more like the Amazing Race. After the night with their folks, the newlywed couple packs up their cleaning gear and go to the next house. They do the rounds, visiting each other’s relatives as husband and wife.
Ironic, considering that the point of a honeymoon is to get away from the family, not spend all your time with them! And if there’s no house in the picture, the couple stays at the bride’s parent’s house until they can move into their very own home.
The Scary Dolls
To Amish kids, who’ve grown up with these dolls, this is just like getting a Barbie. There is, of course, a reason for these homemade, simple dolls. They have no faces because they teach kids that looks don't matter.
In many ways, this is a wonderful idea, and could indeed help combat body image issues that have plagued generations of people. Not to mention more recently with the increase in social media use.
Breaking Bread Together
While it seemed that the Amish were behind and somewhat removed from society, within their groups, there’s a great sense of community and belonging. The Amish are sharing, generous people, and regularly host communal meals. Basically, families put on a big spread for their Amish brothers and sisters, using food and drink as a way to bond the community tighter.
It is extremely important to keep this tradition because the sharing of meals provides a place to communicate and enjoy oneself. The way it works is that each family brings something to the table to share. Whether one family specializes in meat or dairy, or another in baked goods, each will provide a plate or dish to share with the community.