Hutterites

Hutterites

The Hutterites are a communal branch of Anabaptists who, like the Amish and Mennonites, trace their roots to the Radical Reformation of the 16th century. They live in rural colonies primarily in the United States and Canada, and are known for their communal lifestyle, pacifism, and agrarian economy.

History

The Hutterites originated in the early 16th century in the Tyrolean region of Austria. They were part of the Anabaptist movement, which advocated for adult baptism and a separation from state churches. The movement was founded by Jakob Hutter, who became a leader of the group in 1533. Under his leadership, the Hutterites developed a communal way of life, sharing all possessions and living together in community.

Persecution in Europe led the Hutterites to migrate several times, eventually settling in Moravia, where they flourished for a time. However, continued persecution forced them to move again, and by the late 19th century, they had relocated to North America, where they established colonies in the Dakotas and later in Canada.

Beliefs and Practices

Hutterites adhere to a literal interpretation of the Bible and emphasize the teachings of Jesus, particularly the Sermon on the Mount. They practice adult baptism, nonviolence, and communal living. Their communities are organized around the principle of "Gemeinschaft," or community, where all property is owned collectively and decisions are made by consensus.

Hutterite colonies are typically self-sufficient, with agriculture as their primary economic activity. They are known for their efficient farming techniques and often produce a surplus of goods, which they sell to support the community.

Social Structure

Hutterite colonies are organized into "Lehrerleut," "Dariusleut," and "Schmiedeleut," which are named after early leaders. Each colony is governed by a council of elders, with a "minister" or "preacher" serving as the spiritual leader. The community is patriarchal, with men holding most leadership positions, although women play a crucial role in the daily operations of the colony.

Education is highly valued, and children attend school within the colony until the age of 15. The curriculum includes both religious and secular subjects, preparing them for life within the community.

Modern Challenges

Hutterites face several challenges in the modern world, including maintaining their traditional lifestyle in the face of technological advancements and external cultural influences. Some colonies have adopted modern technology to improve agricultural productivity, while others resist such changes to preserve their way of life.

The Hutterites also face legal and social challenges, particularly regarding issues of religious freedom and education. Despite these challenges, they continue to thrive, with over 500 colonies in North America today.

Also see

• Anabaptists
• Amish
• Mennonites
• Jakob Hutter
• Radical Reformation