Why Do Amish Men Have Beards?

Think of the Amish, and you picture barn raisings, rolling green pastures, traditional technologies, and… beards. Yes, the beard is an icon of Amish culture. But not just any old beard – big, bushy, and without any mustache, the Amish beard is a striking image (especially when paired with the classic Amish hat).

Here at Beard Sorcery, we always say that the "beard defines the man." It reveals something about our character, about what we believe. Honest Abe Lincoln, for example, grew his beard after a young girl told him he would look better with whiskers, but it came to define his image. Meanwhile, the Roman Emperor Hadrian sported a rugged beard to honor his beloved Greek heroes.

But the Amish don't make fashion statements, nor do they grow beards to revere past heroes. So, why do Amish men have beards? And why do they grow such a peculiar beard?

In this article, you'll find:

• Who are the Amish? 
• Why Do Amish Men Have Beards?
• The Meaning Behind the Beard
• What If You Can't Grow a Beard?

Who are the Amish? 

You might recognize the Amish beard. But do you know who they are and what they believe?

The Amish are a distinctive group of traditionalist Christians with roots in Swiss German Anabaptism, renowned for their steadfast commitment to simplicity and technology avoidance. Eschewing modern conveniences like electricity and cars, they live by the Ordnung, a set of rules that prioritize community, humility, and piety.

Preferring horse-drawn buggies over modern transport, their lifestyle is a bold statement of faith, focusing on community cohesion, religious devotion, and a deliberate separation from mainstream society. In their plain dress and simple living, the Amish embody a profound dedication to a life centered on values, family, and an unwavering spiritual path.

Interestingly, the Amish have an exceedingly high birth rate compared to the broader population. If the trend continues – and it has for over a century – the Amish will overtake the current US population within 210 years. So, it won't be long until we all have Amish beards!

Why Do Amish Men Have Beards?

The Amish beard and their lifestyle are unconnected. Since its beginnings in the 17th century, the Old Order Amish Mennonite Church has encouraged the use of beards to symbolize piety, community, and masculinity.

One of the original Anabaptist leaders, Jakob Ammann, advocated against fashionable clothing and banned any beard trimming. He also thought liars should be excommunicated. His philosophy was grounded in Gelassenheit – a German word that means self-surrendering to a higher authority. In this case, God.

Ordnung also informs their hirsute views. With the absence of modern technology, men are expected only to use tools and follow practices commonplace for 300 years. So, no electric razors or stainless steel scissors. Men must don the Amish-style hat, while women wear a dress-cape-apron and a headdress.

But what's the religious connection? The Amish strongly emphasize Christianity, following the Bible's teachings closely. According to Leviticus 19:27, "Ye shall not round the corners of your heads, neither shall thou mar the corners of thy beard." The Amish interpret this passage literally, and the growth of the beard marks the passage of boys into manhood.

The Meaning Behind the Beard

Of course, that's not the whole story. Just as the Amish traditions of anti-progress and puritanical hard work are rooted in the 17th century, so is the Amish beard.

As fierce pacifists, the Amish seek a life without confrontation. During the 17th century, it was common for British troops to have a mustache of some kind. In fact, it wasn't just a fashion; it was required in the 1800s. Only the use of gas masks in World War I altered this trend.

As such, the Amish refuse to grow a mustache as a statement of their opposition to military service and war. So, no shaving the corners of your beard, but you should remove the hair from your upper lip.

Amish men also usually grow their beards following marriage. Since the Amish never use wedding rings, the beard serves as a social signal of manhood and the commitment to marriage. He promises never to shave, in part, to preserve the marriage's longevity.

What If You Can't Grow a Beard?

Not everyone can grow a beard. (We know; it's a heart-breaking thought!) It's around 24% of Americans, according to Modern Gentlemen.

Does that mean if you're beardless, you can't be Amish?

No. The Amish only require that you never shave your beard. If nature takes care of it for you, then that's God's will. Only obedience to the religious strictures is required, not a hairy face. 

So, in the Amish view, a clean chin isn't a sign of defiance but rather a nod to divine design, reinforcing that in Amish culture, your actions and intentions truly count, not your ability to grow a beard. 

In fact, there's a way to get around the beard rules entirely. Because of their strict lifestyle, the Amish allow every member of their community the chance to leave when they turn 16 years old and experience modern life among the "English." Amish teens often venture out during these few months and cram as much sex, booze, and rock and roll as they can handle. 

Once they've had their fill, it's time to make a choice: return to the Amish community or spend the rest of their lives among the outside world. Those who choose to leave are no longer Amish, as they do not follow the rules of the faith. 

Try Beard Sorcery's Incredible Products!

Contrary to popular belief, the Amish are allowed to use modern technology. It simply can't be a distraction. So, for any Amish reading, we encourage you to try our selection of Beard Oils. Whether you prefer your beards with or without corners, our beard oils, balms, and waxes work wonders, softening and enhancing your beard. 

We only use natural ingredients from cruelty-free sources. And we provide a 90-day money-back guarantee. Browse our selection and find the right product for your beard.