Non-Resistance and Pacifism: The Amish View on Violence and Lawsuits

While many Christian denominations support just-war theories or self-defense, the Old Order Amish adhere strictly to **non-resistance** (pacifism). Based on Christ’s Sermon on the Mount, they refuse to bear arms, engage in physical violence, or use force—even in self-defense.

Refusal to File Lawsuits

Non-resistance extends directly to legal matters. An Amish person will not sue someone in a court of law, take legal action to recover lost property, or demand financial compensation. They believe in trusting God for justice rather than using secular state power for personal gain.