What happens if Amish people break the rules?

An Amish person who has taken the church vow, and who has been found guilty by the bishop of breaking one of the Ordnung rules, can be punished by the Meidung (excommunication or shunning).

Do the Amish get angry?

Theyre just like us. Theyve got some problems, too. Theyre not goody-goody saints like theyd like us to think they are—they can become angry and violent, as well. Just like us: human, and, as some would say, fallen.

How do Amish handle murder?

They show no anger. The Amish religion prohibits them from doing anything to stir up feelings of anger or vengeance. One of Stoltzfus neighbors compared the murder to a barn burning or a house collapsing--just something that happens. Another said most of his sympathy is for the killer.

Can a shunned Amish return?

Rules vary, but you can rejoin the Amish church after having been shunned. This, however, is a fairly rare phenomenon. The shunned person must sincerely repent and, if necessary, find a way to make amends for any wrongdoing.

What happens if an Amish person cant grow a beard?

In the Amish world, beards are the equivalent of wedding rings. When a man gets married, he stops shaving his beard entirely. It grows for the rest of his life to show the longevity of his marriage. The short answer is that this isnt a problem because an Amish mans marriage isnt about growing a beard.

Are the Amish allowed to leave?

Any member is free to leave. A member who has left may even be allowed to return within a short time. A member who leaves permanently will, however, be shunned. Shunning means that the person will forever be considered an outsider -- a stranger -- and will not be allowed to participate in the community ever again.