10 Divergent Amish Practices That Break Their Strict Rules

When we think of the Amish, strict adherence to tradition often comes to mind—plain clothes, horse-drawn buggies, and simple living.

But even among this seemingly uniform community, there are exceptions to the rules.

Across different Amish groups, unique practices emerge that challenge the common perception of Amish life.

Here’s an unranked list of 10 fascinating ways some Amish communities diverge from their traditional norms.

1. Electricity in Homes and Businesses

The majority of Amish avoid public electricity, relying on alternatives like propane, kerosene, or batteries.

However, a small group known as the Electric New Order Amish permits connections to the public power grid.

While this is rare for private homes, some Amish businesses in progressive communities also use electricity, especially for tourist-related enterprises or leased buildings.

2. Church Meetinghouses

Unlike most Amish, who host worship services in homes, barns, or workshops, a few communities, such as those in Somerset County, Pennsylvania, have designated church buildings.

While this practice is uncommon, it reflects a divergence in tradition and a practical approach to worship in certain areas.

3. The Assurance of Salvation

A core Amish belief is that salvation cannot be assured; instead, they maintain a “living hope” in their faith journey.

However, the New Order Amish profess assurance of salvation, a certainty about their spiritual destiny.

This theological difference marks a significant departure from traditional Amish teachings.

4. Volunteering as Firefighters

In Lancaster County, Amish men often participate in local volunteer fire departments.

This level of civic involvement is rare among Amish groups, making Lancaster County unique in fostering a connection between their plain lifestyle and broader community service.

5. Raising Tobacco

While tobacco farming is uncommon among Amish, it thrives in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

Here, the high value of tobacco as a cash crop offsets the expensive farmland.

Despite its economic benefits, this practice sparks debate within the Amish world about its moral implications.

6. Hiring Drivers

Most Amish hire drivers for long-distance travel or for daily commutes to workplaces or markets.

However, some conservative groups, like the Schwartzentruber Amish, reject this convenience except in emergencies.

Instead, they rely on public transportation like buses or trains for distant journeys.

7. Alcohol Use

Traditionally, Amish communities limit alcohol consumption to occasional, small quantities, such as wine for communion.

However, some groups are known for more liberal attitudes toward drinking.

In certain communities, both youth and adults are more likely to consume alcohol socially or even produce homemade wines.

8. Variations in Beard-Growing Customs

For most Amish men, a beard signifies marriage, starting after their wedding day.

However, customs vary. In some groups, men grow beards after baptism or upon moving into their own homes.

In rarer cases, unmarried men may begin growing beards once they reach a certain age, such as 40.

9. Posing for Photos

The Amish are famously known for avoiding photographs, as they believe posing shows pride.

However, some Amish individuals and groups are more relaxed about being photographed, particularly for official identification cards or media interviews.

This leniency is more common in progressive Amish communities.

10. The Slow-Moving Vehicle Triangle Debate

The orange triangle is a common safety feature on most Amish buggies.

However, ultra-conservative groups, such as the Schwartzentruber Amish, reject this emblem, viewing it as a man-made symbol that contradicts their plain lifestyle.

Instead, they rely on alternative safety measures or faith in divine protection while traveling.

Amish Diversity: A Community of Contrasts

While the Amish are often seen as a monolithic group, these exceptions highlight their internal diversity.

Each variation reflects a blend of historical, cultural, and theological influences unique to specific communities.

These differences remind us that even within a tradition-bound society, there’s room for individuality and adaptation.

Which of these exceptions surprised you the most?

Let us know!