We find religious diversity worldwide, but most religions stem from the same religion. And in Europe, this diversification is more prominent and visible.
Almost all religion talks about a specific belief system and different practices to show how well they can bring positivity to a follower’s life. Similarities do exist, but dissimilarities are easy to mark.
Amish and Mennonite are Christian groups whose roots are the same, but with time, they got divided, changed, and developed different belief systems.
Amish and Mennonites belong to the Anabaptists group, where their basis of belief system was in the simplicity of faith, and their practices are retrieved from the Bible. And this base is still followed by them.
Key Takeaways
- Both Amish and Mennonite are Christian denominations that originated in Europe.
- The Amish are a more conservative sect that emphasizes separation from modern society and the use of technology.
- The Mennonites are a more progressive sect emphasizing engagement with contemporary culture and social justice.
Difference Between Amish and Mennonite
Amish group was founded by Jakob Ammann, who believed that any sin needs severe punishment. Many people got attracted to this concept by Jacob Amann and started following it. In comparison, another group named Mennonites followed the same old peaceful practices of Anabaptists.
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Amish follow the traditional and stringent practices of Anabaptists. They don’t get involved with other people worldwide and don’t believe in technology adoption.
They dress in very plain traditional clothes and travel in buggies or scooters.
Mennonites are known as a non-violent and flexible group of Anabaptists. They embrace and adopt the latest technology in their daily life. They are involved more in missionary work to help deprived people and spread their beliefs & faith across the world.
Comparison Table for Amish vs Mennonite
| Parameter of Comparison | Amish | Mennonite |
|---|---|---|
| Followers | Anabaptists | Anabaptists |
| Founder | Jakob Ammann | Frisian Menno Simons |
| Type of Attire | Plain Traditional Clothes. | Normal Similar to Modern Look. |
| Mode Of Transportation | Scooters and Buggies, i.e., horse-drawn vehicles. | Modern Automobiles, i.e., cars, buses, trains, etc. |
| Language At Church Services | German or the regular dialect of German or Pennsylvania Dutch. | English. |
| Use of Technology | Amish prohibit the use of modern technology in their life. | Mennonites moderately use modern technology in day-to-day life. |
| Living | Simple and in groups, i.e., close-knit communities, not like being a part of the other separate communities. | Simple, and they live as a part of the average population, not in separate communities. |
| Followers of | Amish strictly follows the non-resistance. A person who doesn’t follow church rules will be excommunicated. | Mennonites follow non-violence. |
| Hold Church Services | Privately at home. | Always at Church. |
| Dressing | 1) Women wear solid-colour dresses. 2) Men have full beards | 1) Women wear flowered prints or plaid fabric. 2) Men don’t have full beards. |
What is Amish?
Amish belong to the North American Christian group, formerly belonged to the Anabaptists group. Jakob Ammann founded the Amish group in the late 17th century.
Jakob Ammann was a reluctant and robust believer of ex-communication, i.e., if anybody doesn’t follow the rules of religion and lies, he/she will be shunned from the community.
He was a non-resistance believer but sturdily favoured the social shunning of people involved in any wrongdoings.
Amish people live in close-knit communities that are separated from the mainstream world. They follow very stringent customs, life, and behaviour rules that are not explicitly written but exist and are known as Ordnung.
German, or the regular dialect of German or Pennsylvania Dutch, is the language used by Amish for communication at church and English in daily life at home.
Amish people do Church services at home within the closed community on a rotational basis. They wear very plain clothes that are known as a nonconformist lifestyle.
Amish man has full beard without moustaches, and women wear solid-colour dresses without jewellery.
Amish group strictly prohibits the use of technology of any kind. And the mode of transportation is a horse-driven vehicle or scooter.
Beliefs and Practices
Religious Beliefs
The Amish are a Christian group known for their traditional practices. They believe in the Holy Trinity, practice adult baptism, and interpret the Bible literally. They embrace nonresistance and pacifism, separate themselves from mainstream society, and prioritize community and family. Humility and modesty are central to their lifestyle.
Lifestyle and Community
The Amish lead a simple lifestyle focused on community and traditional values. They dress plainly, limit technology use, and prioritize agriculture. They support each other through mutual aid, follow unwritten guidelines called the Ordnung, and worship in homes or church buildings. Amish children attend Amish schools, and the value of humility, contentment, and submission to God’s will is central to their way of life.
Technology and Modernization
The Amish intentionally limit technology use to maintain a traditional and simple lifestyle. They avoid modern conveniences like electricity, cars, and the internet. Each community decides on the level of technology adoption, prioritizing traditional methods and evaluating potential impacts on their values and unity. They may occasionally outsource tasks requiring modern equipment. Media exposure is also limited due to concerns about its influence.
Amish Today
Population and Distribution
The Amish population is around 350,000 worldwide. They are concentrated in North America, primarily in the United States and Canada. Amish communities, known as settlements, are found in rural areas and vary in size. The Amish prefer limited interaction with the outside world and maintain their distinct way of life within their self-contained communities.
Challenges and Controversies
The Amish face challenges in education, healthcare, technology, social integration, gender roles, genetic disorders, and the practice of ex-communication. Their approach to education clashes with compulsory schooling laws. Reliance on natural remedies poses challenges in accessing modern medical treatments. Avoidance of technology leads to tensions with government regulations.
Maintaining a separate way of life creates challenges in interacting with broader society. Traditional gender roles draw criticism regarding women’s rights. Limited gene pool results in a higher prevalence of genetic disorders. Excommunication and shunning, while preserving faith and values, create emotional and social challenges.
Tourism and Commercialization
Amish communities have become tourist attractions, with guided tours offering visitors a glimpse into their traditional lifestyle. Amish-made products like furniture and quilts have gained recognition, leading to commercialization. However, the commercialization of Amish culture raises ethical concerns about respecting their privacy and traditions.
Challenges arise from increased tourism, including disruptions to the Amish way of life and tensions between the community and visitors. The presence of tourism and commercialization may also introduce outside influences that challenge traditional Amish values. Striking a balance between sharing Amish culture and respecting their desire for privacy is an ongoing debate. Sensitivity and respect are crucial when engaging in Amish tourism, considering the potential impacts on their community and values.
What is Mennonite?
Mennonites’ group resulted from the 16th-century reformation movement that came from Anabaptists. It was named after Frisian Menno Simons, a Dutch priest who tried to institutionalize the workings of moderate Anabaptist leaders.
Mennonites’ belief and faith systems revolve around human betterment, and they try to help the poor of any section. They live commonly among the average population, not in close-knit communities.
They believe in belongingness and are known as peacemakers. They used German in the late 16th century but later adopted English as their common communication language at home and at Church.
Mennonites give more emphasis on one’s pacifism and conscience to worship God. They believe religion and the rest world should not be mixed and should be followed separately.
They follow rigorous religious practices and discipline in their group. They live a simple life with simple clothing but evolve with time and are involved in educational, social, and economic advancements.
Mennonites moderately use modern technology in day-to-day life. And also use automobiles for transportation.
Mennonite Lifestyle
Community
The Mennonite community is a Christian denomination known for its emphasis on peace, simplicity, and community living. They follow the teachings of Jesus Christ and value pacifism, nonviolence, and social justice. Mennonites are part of the Anabaptist tradition and believe in adult baptism, voluntary church membership, and the separation of church and state.
Community living is central to their way of life, often residing in close-knit, intentional communities. Mennonites engage in service and missions, providing aid and assistance locally and globally. Education is highly valued, with a focus on providing quality education to their children. Mennonites have a global presence, with communities found worldwide and contributions made to peacebuilding and humanitarian efforts. It’s important to acknowledge that Mennonite practices and beliefs can vary among different groups and regions.
Education
Mennonites highly value education and prioritize providing quality education to their children. Reflecting their beliefs and values, Mennonite schools integrate academic subjects with Mennonite teachings. These faith-based schools aim to instil Christian principles, such as peace, service, and social justice while fostering spiritual growth and community. Mennonite education takes a holistic approach, nurturing intellectual development, character formation, moral values, and practical life skills.
Teacher-student relationships emphasize personalized attention, mentorship, and a supportive learning environment. Mennonite students pursue higher education in various fields, with some communities having their colleges and universities. Lifelong learning is encouraged, as education is an ongoing process for personal growth and intellectual curiosity. It’s important to note that Mennonite education practices may vary among communities and regions, reflecting the diversity within the Mennonite denomination.
Work and Careers
Mennonites engage in diverse work and careers that reflect their skills and interests. Many Mennonites are involved in agriculture, practising sustainable farming and animal husbandry. They excel in skilled trades like woodworking, carpentry, and blacksmithing, producing handcrafted furniture and artisanal products. Mennonites value education, leading to careers in teaching at both Mennonite and public schools.
Their commitment to service extends to healthcare and social services, with Mennonites working as doctors, nurses, therapists, and volunteers. Business and entrepreneurship are common paths, emphasizing ethical practices and community well-being. Mennonites actively participate in mission work, non-profit organizations, and professional careers spanning law, engineering, finance, technology, and the arts. Personal interests, community traditions, and values influence their work choices. Service, stewardship, and community welfare are central to Mennonite work ethics.
Mennonite Culture
Music and Art
Music and art are important in the Mennonite community, enriching worship, cultural expression, and community life. Mennonite music is characterized by congregational singing, with distinctive features of cappella hymns and four-part harmony. Sacred and secular choral music is embraced and performed by Mennonite choirs. Instrumental music, including the piano, organ, violin, and guitar, accompanies worship and is featured in music ensembles.
Mennonite cultural heritage is preserved through folk music, traditional songs, and instruments like the accordion and fiddle. Visual arts encompass painting, sculpture, ceramics, and textile arts, often reflecting Mennonite beliefs, traditions, and the natural world. Mennonite women are renowned for their quilting and needlework skills, producing intricate and vibrant quilts. Drama and theatre productions and cultural festivals celebrate Mennonite creativity and heritage. Music and art serve as avenues for worship, artistic expression, storytelling, and community engagement within the Mennonite community.
Food and Cuisine
Mennonite cuisine has a rich culinary heritage rooted in traditional recipes and a commitment to wholesome, hearty dishes. Emphasizing a farm-to-table approach, Mennonites prioritize fresh, locally sourced ingredients, often grown on their farms. Comfort foods like homemade bread, soups, stews, casseroles, and meat-based dishes are staples in Mennonite cooking. Preservation techniques such as canning, pickling, and jam-making allow Mennonites to enjoy the flavours of summer year-round.
Mennonite baking is highly regarded, with homemade bread, pies, cakes, cookies, and pastries showcasing their culinary skills. Cultural influences from regions where Mennonites have settled contribute to variations in their cuisine, such as Pennsylvania Dutch and German influences. Community meals and gatherings foster fellowship, community, and hospitality. Mennonites also consider ethical considerations in their food choices, often prioritizing sustainability, organic ingredients, and vegetarian options. Mennonite food reflects their heritage, values, and commitment to simple, homemade, and nourishing meals.
Traditions and Celebrations
Mennonites have a rich tapestry of traditions and celebrations that reflect their faith, culture, and community bonds. They gather for worship services, including congregational singing, prayers, and sermons. Community meals, such as potluck dinners and church suppers, foster fellowship and a sense of belonging. Mennonites are committed to peace and justice, engaging in nonviolent activism and humanitarian efforts. They honour their Anabaptist heritage through historical commemorations and educational programs.
Family reunions and genealogical research strengthen family connections and preserve ancestral knowledge. Weddings and funerals are significant community milestones. Harvest festivals and seasonal celebrations mark the abundance of the land. Christmas and Easter hold religious significance, observed through worship services, music performances, and family gatherings. Mennonite traditions and celebrations strengthen community bonds, deepen faith, honour heritage, and promote peace, justice, and family values, contributing to a strong sense of identity within the Mennonite community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Amish vs Mennonite
Why do the Amish and some Mennonites dress in distinctive clothing?
The distinctive clothing worn by the Amish and some Mennonite groups is rooted in their desire to maintain modesty, simplicity, and separation from the world. Their attire reflects their commitment to traditional values and adherence to community norms.
Why do some Amish and Mennonite communities reject modern technology?
The rejection of certain forms of modern technology among some Amish and Mennonite groups stems from their belief in simplicity, self-sufficiency, and the desire to avoid worldly distractions. They believe that modern technology can lead to materialism, individualism, and a departure from their core values.
How do the Amish and Mennonites educate their children?
The Amish and Mennonites prioritize education within their communities. While approaches may vary, many Amish communities emphasize traditional one-room schoolhouses where children learn practical skills alongside academic subjects. Mennonite education can range from traditional schooling to involvement in public and private educational institutions.
Can outsiders visit Amish and Mennonite communities?
Some Amish and Mennonite communities are open to visitors and tourists, allowing individuals to learn about their way of life and traditions. However, respecting their privacy, following community guidelines, and being mindful of cultural differences when visiting is important.
Main Differences Between Amish and Mennonite
To summarize, the main difference between Amish and Mennonites are,
- Amish was founded by Jakob Ammann, whereas Frisian Menno Simons founded Mennonites.
- Amish live a simple life, whereas Mennonites are little evolved to modern lifestyle.
- The use of technology is strictly prohibited in the Amish community, whereas Mennonites moderately use technology daily.
- For Amish, the mode of transportation is a horse-driven vehicle or scooter, whereas Mennonites use the modern automobile for transportation.
- Amish man has full beard, whereas Mennonite men don’t have full beard.
- Amish women wear solid-colour dresses, whereas Mennonite women wear flowered prints or plaid fabric.
- Amish people live in close-knit communities and don’t become part of the other population, whereas Mennonites live as a part of the population, not as separate communities.
- Amish strictly follow the non-resistance, whereas Mennonites follow non-violence and are known as peacemakers.
- Amish hold Church services at home, whereas Mennonites only hold church services at church.
- https://www.etown.edu/centers/young-center/files/hmorton-references/Pediatric%20Medicine%20and%20Genetics%202003.pdf
- https://repository.lboro.ac.uk/articles/Physical_activity_profile_of_old_order_Amish_Mennonite_and_contemporary_children/9626393/files/17275031.pdf
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Chara Yadav holds MBA in Finance. Her goal is to simplify finance-related topics. She has worked in finance for about 25 years. She has held multiple finance and banking classes for business schools and communities. Read more at her bio page.
