Amish vs. Ultra Orthodox

Attribute	Amish	Ultra Orthodox
Religious Beliefs	Christianity	Judaism
Traditional Dress	Plain clothing, bonnets, suspenders	Modest clothing, head coverings, tzitzit
Technology Usage	Minimal use, no electricity in homes	Varies, some restrictions on technology
Community Structure	Tight-knit, communal living	Close-knit communities, emphasis on family
Language	English, Pennsylvania Dutch	Hebrew, Yiddish

Beliefs and Practices

The Amish and Ultra Orthodox communities are both known for their strict adherence to traditional beliefs and practices. The Amish, also known as the Plain People, follow a simple way of life that emphasizes humility, community, and separation from the modern world. They reject many forms of technology and dress in plain, modest clothing. In contrast, the Ultra Orthodox, also known as Haredi Jews, adhere to a strict interpretation of Jewish law and customs. They prioritize religious study, prayer, and observance of mitzvot (commandments).

Community Structure

Both the Amish and Ultra Orthodox communities place a strong emphasis on close-knit, insular communities. The Amish live in rural settlements where they farm the land and support each other through mutual aid and cooperation. They attend church services in homes or barns and make decisions as a community. Similarly, the Ultra Orthodox live in tight-knit neighborhoods within larger cities, where they have their own schools, synagogues, and social services. They often marry within the community and maintain strong ties to their religious leaders.

Education

Education is a key aspect of both the Amish and Ultra Orthodox communities, but their approaches differ. The Amish prioritize practical skills and hands-on learning, with children attending one-room schoolhouses through eighth grade. After that, they focus on vocational training and apprenticeships to prepare for adult life. In contrast, the Ultra Orthodox place a strong emphasis on religious education, with boys attending yeshivas to study Torah and Talmud full-time. Girls typically receive a more secular education, but religious studies remain central.

Gender Roles

Gender roles are another area where the Amish and Ultra Orthodox communities diverge. In the Amish community, traditional gender roles are strictly adhered to, with women responsible for household tasks and childcare while men work in the fields or in trades. Women typically wear long dresses and cover their heads with prayer caps. In the Ultra Orthodox community, gender roles are also traditional, with men often studying Torah full-time while women manage the household and raise children. Modesty in dress and behavior is highly valued for both men and women.

Technology and Modernity

One of the most noticeable differences between the Amish and Ultra Orthodox communities is their approach to technology and modernity. The Amish reject many forms of modern technology, such as cars, electricity, and telephones, in order to maintain their separation from the world and preserve their way of life. In contrast, the Ultra Orthodox community embraces modern technology to a greater extent, using smartphones, computers, and the internet for communication, education, and business. However, they carefully regulate and monitor its use to ensure it aligns with their religious values.

Interaction with the Outside World

Both the Amish and Ultra Orthodox communities are known for their limited interaction with the outside world. The Amish practice shunning, where members who violate community rules are excommunicated and cut off from social contact. This serves to maintain the purity of the community and uphold its values. Similarly, the Ultra Orthodox community maintains a degree of separation from secular society, with strict rules about interactions with non-Jews and limited exposure to secular culture. However, they may engage with the outside world for business or educational purposes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Amish and Ultra Orthodox communities share some similarities in their emphasis on traditional beliefs, close-knit communities, and strong religious values, they also have distinct differences in their approach to education, gender roles, technology, and interaction with the outside world. Both communities have managed to preserve their unique way of life in the face of modernity and continue to thrive through their commitment to faith, family, and community.