This month, a reader from Bluffton writes:

"Dear Abe, Why do the Amish object to having their pictures taken?"

That is a great question! A common misconception among the "english", is that we're afraid the camera will "capture our soul". This is hardly the case. The fact is, the church opposes the glorification of the individual by displaying one's image. These beliefs are supported in the Bible verses Exodus 20:4 and Deuteronomy 5:8-9. These verses deal with graven images. Photographs that focus on one person encourage a prideful self-centeredness that conflicts with Amish humility. I hope this answered your question and thank you!