The Amish approach to death is a reflection of a life lived in strict adherence to faith, community, and simplicity. When an Amish person passes away, the focus is not on the individual’s earthly status but on the transition to eternal life with God. These traditions are designed to provide comfort to the family, affirm the sovereignty of God, and reinforce the tight-knit bonds of the community, ensuring that the deceased is honored without drawing unnecessary attention or extravagance.
The Immediate Response and Notification
When a death occurs, the family acts quickly to notify the close-knit community. A designated family member contacts the local Amish bishop and other key leaders, who then spread the word. Because cell phones are generally avoided, messages are often relayed via horse and buggy or through a centralized phone booth used by the community. This immediate communication ensures that friends and neighbors can prepare to offer support, whether that means preparing meals or standing vigil with the family during the final moments.
The Preparation of the Body
Contrary to modern practices that often rely on funeral homes, the Amish prepare their dead at home. Family members, usually women of the deceased’s household, carefully wash and dress the body. The clothing is typically simple and plain, adhering to the Amish dress code even in death. There is no embalming, as the community believes in returning the body to the earth naturally. The body is then placed in a plain pine coffin, which is biodegradable and aligns with their belief in humility and a return to dust.
The Funeral Service and Burial
The funeral service, known as a " funeral," is usually held at the family’s home or a community barn if the weather is inclement. The atmosphere is calm and reverent, marked by hymns sung in unison and a eulogy delivered by the bishop. The casket remains closed, and the focus is on spiritual reflection rather than viewing the deceased. After the service, the body is transported to the cemetery, often using the family’s own wagon, for a burial that emphasizes equality—prices for plots are standardized regardless of age or status.
Non-violent handling of the body to show respect.
Use of white fabric for women and black for men to symbolize purity and humility.
Reading of specific Bible verses that offer comfort and hope.
Simple graveside service with minimal words.
Community participation in digging the grave.
Marking the grave with a plain stone to avoid ostentation.
Community Support and the "Ordnung"
In the days following the funeral, the community steps in to support the grieving family. It is customary for neighbors to provide meals for at least two weeks, ensuring the family can mourn without the burden of daily chores. This practice, rooted in the Amish principle of "Ordnung"—a set of guidelines for communal living—highlights the importance of mutual aid. The family is expected to resume normal activities relatively quickly, demonstrating resilience and a return to a life guided by faith rather than despair.
Mourning Period and Memorial Practices
The mourning period is notably brief compared to mainstream practices. While the immediate family might wear a black armband for up to a year as a sign of respect, public displays of grief are discouraged. The Amish believe that life is a journey with a divine purpose, and death is not an end but a passage to reunion with God. Headstones are modest, and flowers are rarely used, reflecting a cultural resistance to extravagance. Instead of visiting graves, the community focuses on celebrating the deceased’s life through stories and renewed commitment to their shared values.
