For nearly three centuries, two groups of Americans have lived alongside each other, although the lives of the people in those groups have been completely different. One group — the vast majority of Americans — has plugged into modern society, taken advantage of modern conveniences, and lived and worked with others, cooperating with each other to move society forward. Another group, however, has kept to themselves, eschewed modern technology, and has tried (and sometimes failed) to avoid having any more than the bare minimum of contact with society at large. The Amish are a devout and pious Christian sect, focused largely on family, community, and the Bible, and they try to avoid interaction with outsiders as much as possible, to the point of not even voting, serving on juries, or serving in the military.

Though they’re known for their religious devotion and piety, you may be surprised to learn, however, that some Amish sects allow — nay encourage — unwed couples to sleep together, according to The Travel. However, it bears noting that here the phrase “sleep together” is not a euphemism for sex; in this case, it literally means sleeping together. Just sleeping. According to Dee Yoder’s blog, the practice is called “bundling,” at least in some communities. However, precautions are taken to ensure that, should natural human urges begin to creep up, actually sealing the deal is going to be difficult.

Amish couples are encouraged to spend the night together before marriage

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