The Amish affirm the 66-book Protestant biblical canon as the authoritative Word of God. Scripture is read publicly in church services (in High German) and in family devotion, and forms the basis of Amish faith and practice alongside the Ordnung. The Dordrecht Confession is also a significant confessional guide, though it is subordinate to Scripture.

Amish biblical interpretation is shaped by the hermeneutic of the community: Scripture is read in light of tradition, the counsel of the bishop, and the inherited Ordnung. Individual private interpretation that leads to departure from community norms is viewed with suspicion.