Because of their kindness, good nature and belief in non-violence, the Amish people have been known and referred to as “gentle people.” Theirs is an ancient and unique community founded upon religious beliefs from way back during the 17th century in Europe. The Amish have their very own way of life that demands discipline, service and maintaining 17th century belief and tradition. Even clothing during that time are mimicked and still being worn.

After the Reformation during the 14th century, splinter groups were formed from within the Protestants. One of this is the Mennonite group prevalent in South Germany and Switzerland. The Amish separated from the Mennonites during the 17th century because they felt that the Mennonites lacked the right discipline to maintain their faith.

Eventually, many Amish migrated to America in the early 1900s and settled in Ohio and some Midwestern states, The Amish people believed that immigration was their hope to preserve and continue their old way of life.

Amish people are strict when it comes to tradition. They live in a recluse society and opt not to join in the modern world. They avoid contact with modernism as much as they can. Theirs is a lifestyle that approximates an old European farming community. They still weave their own cloth using looms and spinning wheels from that period. Generally, they do not use electrical appliance, using oil lamps for illumination and horses as transportation.

Being a gentle community, Amish people have a unique system for justice. If one member is suspected to be dangerous or a threat, the community as a whole ignores this person. The offender is not imprisoned or banished, but is just ignored until he decides to conform back to their usual way of life. After the offender has returned, the Amish community accept him back gladly. This unique justice system has worked for them.

Generally, only people born into the Amish community prescribe to their faith. It is rare that a person from the world outside converts by choice to the Amish lifestyle. Also, Amish people are strict with regards to who they allow to convert. Because of this, the gene pool in the Amish community is fast becoming smaller. This has resulted to birth defects as a result of a very restricted gene pool.

The religion of the Amish people is very structured and restrictive. They have a church that is independent, yet does not have a formal title or designation. Only men are admitted into the 4 sects of the office. Powerful positions are not allowed to women. Services are held in traditional German, although the children are taught English in school. Education in the Amish community is only up to the 8th grade, although the family can teach additional lessons after the child graduates.

Funerals do not display sorrow, are held without flowers or a eulogy. These are conducted at home. A married woman is buried in her wedding dress, traditionally.

Truly, Amish people are the prime epitome of a gentle and non-violent group of people in today’s modern world. It is amazing to marvel at how their unique anachronistic lifestyle manages to survive in the years to come.