Do The Amish Practice Magic?

For some reason, some outsiders associate magic, spells, and even witchcraft to the Amish faith. None of these are true.

So how did this nonense get started?

🪄 The Amish and Magic

I think it has to do with the Amish being an insular culture and the fact that some Amish have been very skilled with learning about medicinal herbs and a few have practiced faith-healing. I once accompanied an elderly Amish woman who was ill to an old Amish healer who proceeded to say some words and make some motions with his hands (as if he were casting a spell) to make her feel better. The woman seemed instantly comforted by whatever had just occurred.

But that is about the extent of the Amish involvement in anything metaphysical or supernatural.

⚕️ Faith Healing and the Amish

There are some Amish communities that have a stronger tradition of faith healing, but it is not as common as it once was. In the past, some Amish communities had men who were known as "lay healers" who would pray for the sick and anoint them with oil. However, this practice has declined in recent years, and most Amish communities now rely on modern medicine for medical care.

There are a few reasons why the Amish have moved away from faith healing. One reason is that they have become more integrated into mainstream society, and they are now more aware of the benefits of modern medicine. Another reason is that they have become more concerned about the dangers of false faith healing, which can lead to people forgoing necessary medical treatment.

☮️ The Amish and Hex Signs

This is another peripheral and misunderstood issue that ties into the "Amish mystique." Hex signs are beautiful designs painted on barns traditionally in Pennsylvania Dutch country,but keep in mind that the term "Pennsylvania Dutch" is a huge umbrella term that encompasses Moravians, Mennonites, Slavics, Germans, and on and on. Hex signs on barns were meant to ward off evil spirits but few Amish ever had hex signs on their barns.

🙋 FAQ About the Amish and Magic