The Amish have strict rules regarding the way they cut and style their hair. These rules are based on the belief that the Bible instructs them to avoid vanity and to maintain a plain and simple appearance.
For men, the rule is to keep the hair short, usually above the ears and collar. Amish men do not typically grow mustaches, but they will grow beards when they marry.
Hair, in particular, is considered to be a symbol of vanity and pride, which is why the rules for hair are so strict. By cutting their hair short and covering their heads, the Amish are able to maintain a plain and humble appearance.
For women, the rule is to keep the hair long and to cover it with a head covering, often a white cap or a prayer covering. The head covering is worn at all times, even when a woman is at home. The hair is usually worn in a bun or a braid and tucked under the head covering. The head covering serves as a symbol of the woman’s submission to her husband and to God.
Additionally, the women’s head covering is a symbol of reverence and humility, it is also a sign of separation from the secular world.
These are general rules, there are variations on the interpretation among different groups and also sometimes specific communities have a less restrictive hair rule but overall these are the common practice. Also, they believe that they should humble themselves before God and not concern themselves with material things, like their hair.
It’s important to remember that these practices are deeply ingrained in their beliefs, and that for the Amish, it’s not just about following a set of rules, but rather it’s about maintaining a way of life that reflects their beliefs and values.
