The Amish are known for their simple way of life, which is rooted in their Anabaptist Christian faith. They live by distinct rules and practices. Both men and woman have significant roles in their communities, and in within their families.

Here are ten things Amish women cannot do that many of us might take for granted. Some of these may look limiting to us, but to the Amish it’s essential for their ability to thrive for generations.

To become Amish is to choose to live in a deep-seated faith a valued traditions.

1. The Use of Electricity: Most Amish communities abstain from the use of electricity. Their belief is that such conveniences lead to worldly influences and thus, worldly behaviors. An Amish woman will use lamps, battery or gas-powered lights, when sunlight isn’t available through windows of her home. She will store her food in an ice box or ice house, and sew her children’s clothes without the use of electricity.
2. Wearing Contemporary Clothing: Amish women wear plain, modest clothing that is often sewn by the very person wearing it. Women only wear dresses, which are long, as well as, a kapp, or prayer covering, and apron. You know they are Amish when you see them.
3. Adornments: An Amish woman who has joined the church will be constant in her belief of simplicity and modesty. She will not wear make-up or jewelry which are seen as forms of vanity.
4. A haircut and color: Unless for a medical reason, an Amish women will never cut her hair. She puts great Christian emphasis on leaving her hair untouched, as to add or take away from her hair is worldly. Her hair is worn under her prayer covering.
5. Transportation: While we have the ability to jump in our car to run to the grocery store on a whim, An Amish woman plans her outings thoughtfully. She travels often by horse and buggy or on foot. On longer trips, she will secure a paid driver.
6. Entertainment: Surfing the internet or catching up on the newest NYPD Blue episode, is not acceptable to the Amish. Entertainment for the Amish typically is going to a sale, visiting family, or playing baseball or volleyball with the family. Board games and favorite books are other great ways of entertainment.
7. Higher Education: For the Amish, eighth grade ends their education which is practical and religiously focused. Few occasions have allowed for unwed scholars to serve their community in healing ways, requiring further learning, but an Amish woman will focus on family, marriage, and serving others.
8. Leadership: Leadership roles in an Amish community and in the home are reserved for men. Women participate in church activities and will organize, but she will not step forward in the absence of a husband or father. Instead, she will rely on that of the elders around her.
9. Divorce: There are strict rules in all Christianity about marriage and divorce. The Amish are no expection, and though divorce has happened, it has been extremely rare. If a man and woman can no longer live together, then they simply live apart.
10. Following the Ordnung: The Ordnung is a set of unwritten rules that govern the Amish way of life. From dress code to technological restrictions, Amish women, like all community members, are expected to follow these rules without question.