To understand Amish daily life, clothing, technology limits, and family values, one must understand the foundation of Amish church governance: the Ordnung. Derived from the German word for “order” or “discipline,” the Ordnung serves as the unwritten blueprint for daily living within each church district.
An Unwritten Code of Conduct
Unlike secular legal codes or corporate rulebooks, the Ordnung is rarely written down in a formal physical document. Instead, it is an oral tradition passed down through generations, understood by all baptized members, and enforced by mutual accountability within the local congregation.
What Does the Ordnung Cover?
The Ordnung regulates almost every physical, behavioral, and technological aspect of life to ensure community humility and spiritual unity:
- Dress and Grooming: Clothing styles, solid fabric colors, head coverings for women, and beard length for married men.
- Technology Boundaries: Bans on grid electricity, automobile ownership, televisions, and public internet lines.
- Transportation: Rules regarding buggy design, horse power, and travel limits.
- Occupations and Business: Guidelines on allowable tools, off-grid generators, and shop sizes.
Why Is the Ordnung Necessary?
The primary purpose of the Ordnung is not to restrict freedom, but to preserve Christian humility (Gelassenheit), prevent individual pride, and protect the close-knit community against the disintegrating influences of modern individualistic culture.