Amish Women in Michigan Must Obey These 11 Rules

Amish women in Michigan are a mystery wrapped in modesty and tightly laced with deep religious beliefs. Their lives, governed by centuries-old traditions, might make the rest of us "English" (their term for outsiders) wonder if we're doing life completely wrong—or just differently. Spoiler alert: it's the latter.

Let's clear something up right away: the Amish aren't one-size-fits-all. Elizabethtown College studies show each community has its own playbook. In some Michigan sects), riding in a car might be okay, while in others, even looking at a vehicle with envy could get you side-eyed by the rest of the community.

How Amish Communities Set Rules

Amish sect rules don't come from a central Amish government (because, surprise, that doesn't exist). Instead, community leaders—mostly men—call the shots, and they feel the Bible backs up their beliefs.

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According to AmishRules.com, for Amish women, the rules aren't just suggestions; they're a way of life. Forget vanity, which is practically a four-letter word in their culture. Hair, makeup, trendy clothes? Nope, nope, and absolutely not. These women were raised to embrace simplicity, humility, and a level of patience most of us only aspire to when our Wi-Fi goes out.

Oh, and that little wild-child phase known as rumspringa? It's not nearly as rebellious as reality TV makes it seem. Yes, some Amish teens get a taste of the "English" world, but most end up choosing the comfort of their family, faith, and well...rules.

RELATED: An Amish Christmas in Michigan: A Pure Celebration

While the following 11 rules may seem outlandish to us, they are a way of life for Michigan's Amish communities.