The Amish practice a form of Christianity known as Anabaptism. They are formally referred to as the Old Order Amish, representing a distinct group of traditionalist Anabaptist Christian church fellowships.
Understanding Amish Religious Identity
Their religious heritage traces back to Swiss and Alsatian origins. As an Anabaptist Christian denomination, their faith is centered on principles that differentiate them from many other Christian traditions.
Core Aspects of Amish Anabaptist Faith
The Amish faith is characterized by several key elements that define their unique religious and cultural practices:
- Christianity: The Amish are followers of Jesus Christ, basing their lives and beliefs on the teachings of the Bible. Their adherence to scripture guides their daily conduct and community structure.
- Anabaptism: This tradition emphasizes specific practices, including:
- Believer's Baptism: They practice adult baptism, where individuals choose to be baptized as an outward sign of their personal faith commitment.
- Nonresistance: A core belief in pacifism and non-violence, leading them to refuse military service and avoid physical confrontation.
- Separation from the World: They maintain a deliberate distance from the broader society and its influences, seeking to live simply and independently.
- Traditionalism: Being "traditionalist," they adhere strictly to long-standing customs, simple living, and community values. This is often reflected in their plain dress, rejection of many modern technologies (like electricity or automobiles in some communities), and farming-based livelihoods.
- Fellowship: The concept of "church fellowship" is central to their faith, highlighting the vital importance of their local community and mutual support in practicing their faith and living according to their beliefs.
For further insights into the Amish way of life and their religious history, resources like general encyclopedic entries provide comprehensive information.
