Rumspringa Essay Example
Rumspringa Essay Example

Rumspringa Essay Example

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  • Pages: 2 (435 words)
  • Published: May 28, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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The Amish tradition known as "Rumspringa" means "running around" and typically involves Amish teenagers, typically at 16 years old, exploring life beyond their community and indulging in activities that would otherwise be prohibited.

Unbeknownst to many, Rumspringa entails indulging in English customs and traditions, including trying out new things, getting married, and going back to the Amish way of life. Despite being granted some liberties, most youth must still follow particular rules like curfews while dating and refraining from sexual activity deemed sinful. Innocent activities like purchasing gadgets, watching films, and participating in sports are typical. Occasionally, youngsters may convene for dinner parties following religious services.

The primary notion of this occasion is to test the dedication of children to their faith, even when faced with temptation. According to experts from Elizabethtown

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College, experiencing the allure of the world reminds Amish youth that membership in the church is a choice, but despite this, most aspects of life in Amish communities guide them towards church membership. Recognizing their ability to choose may enhance their commitment to adhering to church standards and ultimately, to the authority of the church itself. Although many of the indulgences enjoyed by Amish children are innocent, restrictions may vary among different communities, with some enforcing none at all, leading children to venture outside of their communities to party, drink, do drugs, and engage in unsafe sex. Tom Schatman's book 'To Be Or Not To Be Amish: Rumspringa' portrays a transformation in Amish children from being devout, fully clothed workhorses dedicated to the Lord, to delinquents dressed in cut-off shirts who drink and party without regard for their religion or safety.

A quote from "Devils Playground,"

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a book and documentary, states that during Rumspringa weekends near Shipshe, Berlin, and Intercourse, Amish youths party until late on Sunday before sobering up for the workweek. This lifestyle is not the norm, however, and most children still have heavy restrictions. "The Amish" book explains Rumspringa as a measure of freedom before settling down, marrying, and becoming adult members of the community, during which they typically find a spouse. Once married, they must return to traditional Amish ways of no electricity, hard work, and church dedication. The majority of youths ultimately return to their communities and lifestyles.

Occasionally, children become enamored with English life and choose not to return, leading to complete ostracism from the community. During Rumspringa, teenagers are encouraged to experience sinful behavior as a test of their Amish faith and determine whether or not they will return. It is an opportunity to sample the forbidden fruit of various vices, including marriage and lifestyle experimentation.

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