The Differences Between Mennonites And Amish

Who are these so-called “Plain People?” You might think that the Mennonites are just interchangeable terms, but this is not true. This is a mistaken assumption. Both share the desire to live simple and nonviolently, even though they express their views in different ways. The Amish broke off from the Mennonites in order to avoid their liberalism. While the two factions have many similarities, they differ in their views on modern technology, clothing, urban civilization and punishments.

The Mennonites, however, embrace technology while the Amish reject it. Amish refuse to possess any form technology or electricity. Instead, they use horse-drawn buggies for transport (Whose education?). The Amish ban technology because it interferes with one’s faith (Mennonites and Amish). The Amish believe that technology is the key to the evil world. This mindset can lead to immorality and temptation. The Amish are wary of any strategy that could lead to the loss of life’s ability to sustain it, and they forbid such actions. The simple truth is that smaller is best and less is greater (Religion Facts). Mennonites, by contrast, are more open to technology than the Amish and understand its accommodating purpose better. This group, unlike the Amish, believes technology can enhance their faith and help them serve God more. Mennonites are open to the use of simple electric vehicles and generators. But they do have some preferences about which technologies are acceptable. Television sets and radios are not considered common. Mennonites are not accustomed to using technology (Amish and Mennonites). Their stark, primitive attire is the main reason that Amish and Mennonite people often confuse each other. Without proper knowledge, it is nearly impossible to distinguish the differences in the clothing of these two groups. Mennonites believe clothing should be easy, but the Amish follow a stricter dress code than Mennonites and Amish. The Amish are distinctive in that they take their clothing design from European peasants of the 17th century. This group resists the demands of the outside world and refuses to change or stray from the traditions. The simplicity of the Amish community reflects their immense respect for humility. Amish men, for example, are often adorned with wide-brimmed black hair, solid shirts and dark suits. Women are often seen wearing shawls, shawls or long dresses and black stockings. Amish women are known for their modestly tying their hair in a secure bun. Both religions are very particular about clothing. Mennonites are similar to Amish people who consider appearances to reflect the soul. Women are subject to the strictest dress codes, which are dictated by their ministers and their men. Obeying to the dress code is a sign that you are willing to obey the church’s orders. Mennonite women should wear neutral-colored clothes and simple head-coverings. This is almost the same as the Amish. Mennonites and Amish differ greatly in their opinions about where they live and how involved they are in urban society. The Amish live in isolation, despite the fact that they make regular trips to the nearby town. The close-knit Amish community promotes sectarian virtues such as thrift, devotion, good work ethic and mutual goodwill. The Amish do not participate in voting, politics or military services. Amish do not encourage higher education. They prefer that their members stay at home and work on their personal farms. Mennonites and Amish heavily depend on their land labor to ensure the survival of their communities (Mennonites and Amish). Mennonites however, interact more with society. Mennonites were deeply involved in the economic, social, and educational worlds throughout the 20th century (Britannica).

This faction promotes higher education and encourages people to pursue other occupations than the farm. Mennonites are more modern than Amish and often participate in international ministry opportunities. Mennonites seek to integrate with the world through religious witness and services (Britannica) rather than utter isolation.

An Amish lifestyle is counter-cultural. They use discipline to remove those who are causing offense to the community.

Although the Anabaptist lineage has roots in radical reformers and Mennonites, they share many historical similarities with the Amish. However, it’s important to understand that they are two distinct Christian communities. There are many differences in their faith, including the simplicity of their beliefs, cultural principles, dogmas and clothing. However, there are strong disagreements about edification, religious obligations, chastisements and religious obligations. Primarily, the difference between Mennonites & Amish isn’t their beliefs. It’s how they apply the belief to what is right in each religious’s eyes.

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  • codyyoung

    Cody Young is an educational blogger. Cody is currently a student at the University of Utah pursuing a degree in communications. Cody has a passion for writing and sharing knowledge with others.

codyyoung

codyyoung

Cody Young is an educational blogger. Cody is currently a student at the University of Utah pursuing a degree in communications. Cody has a passion for writing and sharing knowledge with others.

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