The Amish way of life is based around two key principles: hochmut and demut. Outsiders oftentimes question why those in the Amish community choose such a simple lifestyle that prohibits modern technology and conveniences. Even after several hundred years, very little has changes in the Amish culture regarding their lifestyle and religious practices. This is undoubtedly difficult for some people to understand, but the truth is that Amish culture is defined through hochmut and demut. In this post, we’re going to take a closer look at these two keys and reveal the significance they have in the Amish lifestyle.
Hochmut
The first word we’re going to cover, hochmut, refers to a combination of pride, arrogance and haughtiness. Rather than embracing these negative traits, those in the Amish community reject them. By rejecting hochmut, the Amish are able to live a more humble lifestyle where everyone is made equal. Pride, arrogance and haughtiness are all looked down upon in the Amish community; therefore, they teach children at an early age to remain humble. This is a key principle that’s one of the guiding factors with the Amish.
Of course, the rejection of hochmut also plays a role in how the Amish dress and live. They believe that flashy clothes, jewelry and accessories lead to an unbalanced community where some individuals are placed on a higher pedestal than others. For instance, if one person in the community were to dress in flashy clothes and accessories, he or she may begin to develop a sense of pride and/or arrogance, which is exactly why they reject hochmut.
Demut
Demut actually goes hand in hand with hochmut. Demut is defined as humility or an individual’s humbleness. If you’ve ever visited Amish Country or any of the areas in the U.S. with a high population of Amish, you’re probably well aware of their level of humility. They live a simple life that’s revolved around religion and family. Those living in the Amish community are respectful of others and keep to themselves for the most part. This all goes back to the importance they place on demut.
After learning the definitions of demut and hochmut, you’ll naturally have a better understanding of the Amish lifestyle. They’ve remained a very simple culture who are respectful and humble for hundreds of years, which is all the result of embracing demut and rejecting hochmut.
Considering naming my son, middle name, as Demut – As, I have read this is a Feminine noun, do you think this is appropriate?
Thanks for your input
Considering naming my son, middle name, as Demut – As, I have read this is a Feminine noun, do you think this is appropriate?
Thanks for your input
Demut would be an admirable name.
In a world of equality; names that don’t denote male/female are quite appropriate in 2018.