Amish beards pay homage to the Bible
The Amish, while closely connected to Mennonite churches, have unique practices and traditions that set them apart from other Christian groups.
For the Amish, the beard is a homage to the Bible. In the eras described in their religious scriptures—long before the invention of contemporary razors—most men had full beards. Devout Amish men pay tribute to this tradition by growing their own beards.
However, it is not simply about never shaving – only married men are permitted to let their beards grow. Growing a beard signifies to the community that he has officially reached manhood.
Pacifism is a core Amish belief
Leviticus 19:27 – “Do not cut the hair at the sides of your head or clip off the edges of your beard” – is a core belief of the Amish, one they follow religiously.
Another cornerstone of their faith is non-resistance, akin to pacifism. This principle entails refraining from resisting authority, even in perceived injustices, extending to their everyday conduct. Moreover, participation in warfare or combat is deemed a form of resistance by the Amish, precluding them from military involvement.
Hence, the mustache is not permitted.
Why don’t Amish men sport mustaches?
Today, the mustache is a fashion choice, but it was once a symbol of military service. Facial hair has long been associated with war and the strength of troops, particularly in areas of the world where beards and mustaches are deemed to be more masculine. Even today, facial hair is worn by soldiers in certain regions as a way to gain respect.
For example, the British Empire were big fans of the mustache, going so far as to make it mandatory for soldiers at one point. This requirement remained in place until World War I, when maintaining a mustache wasn’t only a low priority, but also impossible in the harsh conditions of the trenches along the Western Front.
Furthermore, the appearance of gas on battlefields sparked fears that facial hair would prevent a gas mask from completely sealing against the skin. As such, the requirement was dropped in October 1916.
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With such strong ties to war history, the Amish choose to not sport mustaches in rejection of military service. This allows them to continue growing their beards while avoiding any association with the military. It helps let others know who’s married, too, as it’s worn in lieu of a wedding ring.
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