It’s totally fine to acknowledge an Amish buggy driver. Just like when you pass other drivers on the road, giving them a wave or a nod is a nice way to show that you see them and appreciate their presence. Always be friendly and respectful to everyone sharing the road with you.

If you’re driving, make sure to keep your focus on the road and only acknowledge buggy drivers when it’s safe to do so. Avoid any gestures that could distract you or the buggy driver.

While it’s nice to wave at buggy drivers, let’s not forget about safety. Keep your eyes on the road and wait for a safe moment to acknowledge them. You want to be friendly, but you also want to stay safe.

Remember that Amish buggies travel at slower speeds than cars, so give them plenty of space when passing. Be patient and wait for a safe opportunity to overtake them.

Here’s something cool: Amish buggies are eco-friendly! Unlike cars, they don’t pollute the air. So when we acknowledge them, we’re also giving a thumbs-up to Mother Nature.

Some Amish groups, like the New Order Amish, have modern comforts like indoor plumbing and running water. They heat their water using solar, gas, wood, or oil furnaces. This lets them shower or bathe daily or every other day, similar to non-Amish folks.

Others, like the Old Order Amish (including the Swartzentruber Amish), keep things old-school. They don’t have indoor plumbing or electricity. They get water from hand pumps and heat it on stoves for bathing.

This takes more effort, so they usually bathe less often, maybe once a week, especially in winter. They might bathe more in summer because they’re more active and need to stay clean.

How Do the Amish Shower Without Running Water?

Whether or not the Amish take showers depends on whether they have indoor plumbing in their homes. If they do, they can take showers just like anyone else.

But if they don’t have indoor plumbing, they use a different method called sponge baths. This means they wash themselves using a basin filled with water instead of standing under a shower. It’s a simpler way of staying clean when they don’t have running water in their homes.

Fetching Water for the Kitchen

Many Amish use a hand-pump to fetch water for the kitchen. Think of it like a manual faucet. Instead of turning on a tap like you’re used to, the Amish use a pump that they operate by hand to get water.

They use this water for things like cooking in the kitchen and for washing dishes. It’s a bit like going back to basics, where you have to physically pump the water yourself instead of just turning on a faucet.

Wrapping It Up

Whether a home has running water and bathrooms can show how modern or traditional the Amish group is. New Order Amish homes usually have bathrooms. But the more conservative Old Order Amish might keep things simpler, without fancy plumbing.

So while they could technically be drafted, they would likely be exempted from serving in combat roles due to their conscientious objection to warfare.

When there’s been a draft, like during World War II, Amish men of fighting age didn’t have to go to war.

They were still required to serve, but in different ways. They worked in hospitals or forestry, which didn’t clash with their beliefs. The Amish are not opposed to serving their country.

The Amish believe strongly in non-violence. They refuse to participate in activities that involve using weapons or harming others.

This includes being part of any system, like the military, where they might be required to take someone’s life or cause injury.

In the past, the military often rejected requests for exemption from service if they thought the person was just trying to avoid combat.

However, if someone has grown up in a peaceful Amish community and sincerely opposes violence, it’s hard for the military to argue against their beliefs.

If the US Congress decides to bring back the military draft, your birthday and registration number determine if you get drafted. It doesn’t matter if you’re Amish. If your number is called, you have to report to the induction center.

There, they’ll assess if you’re fit for military service. You can request an exemption during this process.

⇒ Did You Know?

• In the United States, there hasn’t been a military draft since 1973. However, all males between 18 and 26 are still required by law to register for Selective Service, regardless of whether there’s an active draft or not.

More Reasons Why the Amish Won’t Get Drafted

Certain aspects of the Amish faith clash with military requirements, like their Sunday observance and the practice of growing facial hair after marriage.

The military would struggle to accommodate these unique needs without opening the door for similar requests from other religious groups. To avoid complications, they might opt not to exclude the Amish from drafting.

Moreover, the Amish population in the US is around 370,000, which is relatively small.

This means that even if they were eligible for the draft, excluding them would not pose significant logistical challenges.

⇒ Did You Know:?

• The Amish don’t get involved in politics, legal battles, or working in law enforcement.

 Wrapping It Up

The U.S. government offers alternative service options for people who refuse to fight for religious or moral reasons, like the Amish. This ensures they can still do their part without going against their beliefs.

These arrangements show how the U.S. tries to respect people’s religious beliefs while still meeting national duties. It’s a way to include pacifist groups like the Amish in national defense efforts without making them do things against their faith.

As a result, they choose not to use photography in their daily lives.

What about medical imaging like MRIs and X-rays, which involve capturing images of the body for diagnostic purposes?

Amish people do use modern medical services, including X-rays and MRIs, when necessary. The Amish community’s use of technology is often misunderstood.

They do not outright reject all modern technology but rather carefully select which technologies to use based on how they align with their values and how influence their family and community life.

Medical care, including diagnostics that require X-rays and MRIs, falls within the scope of services they might use, especially in life-threatening situations or for significant health issues where such diagnostic tools are essential for appropriate treatment.

While the Amish generally avoid photography due to religious beliefs, they typically make an exception for medical procedures like MRIs and X-rays. Although these procedures involve capturing images, the focus is on diagnosing and treating health conditions rather than creating images for personal or aesthetic reasons.

Therefore, they often view MRIs and X-rays differently from conventional photography, considering them essential tools for medical care.

How the Amish Approach Healthcare

The Amish prioritize a lifestyle focused on physical labor, healthy diets, and close-knit community support. They often use home remedies and don’t go to the doctor unless it’s really needed.

They favor natural and home remedies for minor ailments, relying on traditional knowledge passed down through generations.

Amish people do use modern medical services, including hospitals and surgical procedures, when necessary.

They don’t have health insurance and rely on community aid to help cover medical expenses, as health insurance is not used.

The Amish community often comes together to help pay for medical expenses, as they do not use conventional health insurance.

Some Amish communities have established relationships with specific hospitals and clinics that understand and respect their unique needs and values.

Since they refuse to provide a photo for a passport, they cannot obtain one, limiting their travel options to local areas, Canada, and Mexico.

States like Ohio and Pennsylvania provide photo-less identification, enabling Amish people to travel across state lines or to Canada or Mexico, despite their prohibitions on personal photos​.

Mexico, the USA, and Canada allow travel by private vehicle using birth or citizenship certificates.

The Amish don’t have photo IDs because their beliefs forbid the creation of graven images, which includes photographs of people.

To accommodate this belief, a “VALID WITHOUT PHOTO” sign is typically placed on their state ID instead of a photograph.

Crossing the border usually involves showing non-photo IDs or birth certificates, along with a Form 4029. This form lets them cross the border in many situations.

Amish individuals use their birth, citizenship, or naturalization certificates, along with an IRS SSN waiver form, to cross the US-Canada border or vice versa, but only when traveling by private vehicles at land border crossings.

They generally do not travel outside of the United States and Canada, so they there’s no need for them to have passports.

The Amish are known for following the law closely. If international travel requires a passport and their community permits it, those traveling internationally will indeed obtain a passport.

Each state may have its own set of identification regulations and standards for the Amish. Some of these ID cards without photos aren’t valid for voting or driving.

These differences can include varying forms of identification accepted by state authorities.

Like anyone else born in the United States, Amish individuals have birth certificates. These documents are issued by the state where they were born and serve as a primary form of identification.

Identification Requirements for the Amish in Indiana

In the state of Indiana, Amish individuals can obtain non-photo IDs and use them as primary identification alongside a signed Social Security Card (if they choose to obtain one), IRS Form 4029 for exemption from Social Security numbers, baptismal certificates, marriage certificates, or school records, and a letter from their bishop or clergy.

This system allows the Amish to navigate legal and bureaucratic processes without compromising their religious commitments to avoid photographs, which they consider graven images.

Similar identification requirements are valid in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

Understand the Basics

Respect Their Values

The Amish culture is built on simplicity, humility, and community.

This means valuing modesty and avoiding extravagance or excessiveness in all aspects of life. From clothing to technology, simplicity is key.

Amish individuals prioritize modesty and shun arrogance or pride. They believe in living humbly and avoiding self-promotion or seeking attention.

Community plays a vital role in Amish life. They prioritize cooperation over individual pursuits. Close-knit relationships and helping one another are highly valued.

Learn About Their Lifestyle

The Amish way of life is different from the modern world. Familiarize yourself with their lifestyle choices.

They avoid things like electricity and cars, sticking to old-fashioned ways.

Amish communities appreciate hard word. They grow their food, make their clothes, and build their own homes.

Amish people rely on each other, often gathering for meals and helping out when needed (frolics).

First Contact

Visit Amish Businesses

Start by visiting Amish-run shops or markets. It’s a great way to meet and support the community.

When visiting, remember to dress modestly and follow any rules or customs they may have, such as not taking photographs.

Take the time to chat with the owners and employees. Buy items from these shops as a way to support the local Amish community.

Be Polite but Not Intrusive

When you shop or visit, be friendly and express genuine interest but avoid being overly curious or intrusive about their lifestyle.

Don’t ask intrusive questions about their lifestyle or beliefs. Respect their privacy and boundaries.

Follow their cues in conversations and interactions. If they seem reserved or prefer not to discuss certain topics, steer the conversation elsewhere.

Building the Relationship

Speak Respectfully

Use polite language and avoid controversial topics. Showing respect can go a long way.

Refrain from discussing sensitive subjects such as politics, religion, or modern technology.

Show genuine interest in what they have to say and listen attentively without interrupting.

Allow them to guide the conversation. If they prefer to keep discussions focused on neutral topics, respect their wishes.

Listen More Than You Talk

Show that you’re interested in learning from them, not just about them.

Encourage them to share by asking open-ended questions. Allow them to share at their own pace.

Show genuine interest in what they say without interrupting.

Participate in Community Events

Attending public events like auctions or benefit sales where non-Amish people are welcome is a great way to get to know the community.

Take the opportunity to observe the Amish community in action, from their interactions to their way of life.

If appropriate, offering to help with community events or needs can demonstrate your goodwill.

Respect Their Boundaries

Understand Limits to Technology

Remember, many Amish communities avoid or limit technology use. Don’t expect to communicate via phone or email.

If you need to communicate with them, consider alternative methods like visiting in person or sending letters by mail.

Respect Privacy

Just like you wouldn’t invade a friend’s privacy, treat the Amish community with the same level of respect.

Hold off on taking pictures without asking first. They value privacy and may not be comfortable with it.

Avoid prying into their personal lives. Stick to light topics and let them share what they’re comfortable with.

Think of them as new pals. Treat them how you’d like to be treated. It’s all about being friendly and respectful.

Patience is Key

Friendships Take Time

Building trust and friendship with anyone takes time, more so with communities that are cautious about outside influences.

Earning trust and making friends, especially with cautious communities like the Amish, doesn’t happen overnight.

Don’t rush it. Building trust takes time, so be patient.

Be reliable and consistent in your interactions. They’ll appreciate your sincerity.

Start with simple gestures of kindness, respect, and even small gifts when appropriate. Over time, bonds will strengthen.

Be Consistent but Not Pushy

Show your genuine interest and friendship consistently, but understand that deep trust may take time to develop.

Show sincere interest and friendship without any hidden agendas.

Understand that building deep trust takes time, so don’t push for it.

Amish communities often keep a distance from mainstream society due to their religious beliefs.

“Be in the world, but not of the world.”

But that doesn’t mean they aren’t allowed to shake hands with non-Amish people or talk to them.

In Amish communities, men typically interact more with outsiders, while women often stay at home.

This can make them less used to dealing with strangers, so they might seem shy or reserved at first.

But once you get to know them, they’re just as friendly as anyone else.

On the other hand, the more conservative Amish communities, actively avoid outside influences. They might seem unfriendly or even hostile because they see the outside world as harmful.

They believe that technology and modern chaos could harm their way of life.

Are Amish Raised to Not Let Others Touch Them?

The Amish aren’t strictly forbidden from physical touch by others. While they value modesty and personal space, there’s no firm rule against it.

They just tend to be more reserved in their interactions with non-Amish people.

Why Are Some Amish Community Friendlier Than Others to Outsiders?

Some people, including the Amish, are naturally friendly and kind to everyone they meet. They’re just genuinely nice.

However, if they think they can make a sale, get a good deal, or profit from you in some way, they’ll likely be even friendlier.

Amish businessmen are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

But if you say something against their faith or way of life, they might not be as warm.

If they feel like you’ve attacked their beliefs, they might not even want to do business with you, let alone be friendly.

How to Find a Friendly Amish Community

The Amish live in many states across the United States, with the largest populations in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana.

The best chance to find a friendly Amish community is often by visiting one that welcomes tourism. They’re used to meeting new people and are more likely to be open and welcoming.

Tourist-friendly Amish communities are welcoming and often offer guided tours, sell handmade goods, and host events where you can learn about their way of life.

The short answer is no, the Amish do not eat dogs. 

The Amish Do Eat Meat

Amish dietary practices include a variety of meats, but dogs are not among them.

Many Amish families raise their own livestock, including chickens, pigs, and cows, for meat consumption.

Beef, pork, and poultry are staples in the Amish diet, often prepared in hearty and comforting dishes.

Meat is commonly cooked using traditional techniques such as roasting, stewing, and smoking, preserving both flavor and nutritional value.

How the Amish View Dogs

For the Amish, animals primarily serve functional roles within their communities. Dogs are no exception.

Amish families value their dogs for their contributions to farm life rather than solely for companionship. Dogs on Amish farms are often seen as helpers rather than just pets.

They have specific jobs like hunting or protecting the property and livestock from predators.

Some dogs are trained to assist with tasks like herding livestock, contributing to the efficiency of farm operations.

In some Amish communities, there are worries about how dogs are treated, especially in puppy mills.

Puppy mills are places where dogs are bred mainly for profit, often disregarding the animals’ well-being.

Some puppy mills are linked to Amish communities, drawing criticism from animal rights groups.

These facilities face accusations of mistreating dogs, including poor living conditions and inadequate medical care.

To the Amish, animals aren’t always seen the same way we do. They don’t typically form close bonds with pets like we might.

For the Amish, if a dog doesn’t serve a purpose, like guarding or helping with farm tasks, it may not be kept around. They prioritize usefulness over companionship.

The Amish value animals, including dogs, for what they provide, whether it’s protection, labor, or food. It’s a practical approach to farming and living.

By the way, you can also check out the video version of this article:

Are the Amish Allowed to Drink Alcohol?

Some Amish groups prohibit alcohol entirely, while others may allow moderate consumption of beer or wine.

Old Order Amish: Moderate Consumption

Old Order Amish do not forbid alcohol. They see it as okay to drink in moderation, often having beer or wine at events like weddings or private gatherings.

Drinking alcohol isn’t as frowned upon, but they don’t approve of getting drunk, even though it does happen sometimes.

Their stance is influenced by cultural and religious beliefs, considering alcohol part of their Germanic heritage and Biblical references.

Some Old Order Amish even brew their beer or make wine.

Sometimes, they buy alcohol from the nearby big stores or have their wives get it during grocery trips.

Some Amish have been caught driving their buggies drunk.

Even though there’s a chance of accidents with cars, a lot of buggy drivers trust their horses to lead them home.

New Order Amish: Stricter Approach

The New Order Amish are stricter about alcohol. They ban it because they think it’s bad for health and spirituality.

This difference in opinion about alcohol played a part in why they split from the Old Order Amish.

Here are some Bible verses that say drinking alcohol is wrong.

Ephesians 5:18:

Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.

Isaiah 5:11:

Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine. They have harps and lyres at their banquets, tambourines and flutes and wine, but they have no regard for the deeds of the LORD, no respect for the work of his hands.

Proverbs 20:1:

Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is led astray by them is not wise.

Proverbs 23:29-35:

29 Who has woe? Who has sorrow?
    Who has strife? Who has complaints?
    Who has needless bruises? Who has bloodshot eyes?
30 Those who linger over wine,
    who go to sample bowls of mixed wine.
31 Do not gaze at wine when it is red,
    when it sparkles in the cup,
    when it goes down smoothly!
32 In the end it bites like a snake
    and poisons like a viper.
33 Your eyes will see strange sights,
    and your mind will imagine confusing things.
34 You will be like one sleeping on the high seas,
    lying on top of the rigging.
35 “They hit me,” you will say, “but I’m not hurt!
    They beat me, but I don’t feel it!
When will I wake up
    so I can find another drink?

1 Peter 5:8:

Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.

Romans 14:21:

It is a noble thing not to eat meat, drink wine, or do anything that makes your brother stumble.

Rumspringa: Experimenting with Alcohol

For Amish youth, the period of Rumspringa (around age 16) often involves greater freedom to explore life outside Amish norms.

This includes experimenting with alcohol, though it’s not a universal or officially endorsed practice.

After this period, many youths return to the Amish community and adhere to its rules, including those concerning alcohol​​.

Despite a generally conservative approach, alcohol abuse is not unheard of in Amish communities, particularly among the youth during Rumspringa.

Do the Amish Drink Beer?

Some Amish do drink beer. Some even brew their beer, which is a reflection of their German heritage. In such cases, they might use a barn to brew their beer.

In communities where beer is consumed, there is an emphasis on moderation.

The Amish culture values self-control and discipline, and this extends to their approach to alcohol consumption.

Can the Amish Drink Liquor?

In the Amish community, beer and wine are typically consumed during special events such as weddings and community gatherings.

These beverages are chosen more frequently than hard liquor, which is less common among the Amish but not entirely unheard of.

Can the Amish Drink Wine?

Yes, the Amish can drink wine. Wine is typically associated with celebrations and social gatherings within the Amish community. It is consumed in moderation during these events.

Wrapping It Up

In conclusion, alcohol consumption among the Amish varies significantly between communities. While some Amish groups, especially the Old Order Amish, consume beer and wine in moderation during special occasions, others, like the New Order Amish, prohibit alcohol.