Dawoodi Bohra Arzi Format -

The Dawoodi Bohra community is a subsect of Ismaili Shia Islam known for its distinct religious practices, organizational structure, and strong emphasis on community discipline and communication. An "arzi" in many South Asian Muslim contexts refers to a formal written petition or request submitted to a community leader, administrative office, or mosque committee. Within the Dawoodi Bohra community, an arzi follows respectful, concise norms reflecting Islamic etiquette, cultural conventions, and the community’s administrative practices.

This is the functional heart of the Arzi. You must state the Sabab (reason) clearly.

Critical Rule: Never lie. The spiritual consequence of a false Arzi is considered severe.

Knowing the Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format is useless without the accompanying etiquette. In community tradition, Adab outweighs the text itself.

Why go through all this trouble? In the Dawoodi Bohra doctrine, submitting an Arzi is not a legal hurdle but a spiritual elevator.

The 51st Dai, Syedna Taher Saifuddin (RA), taught that "The ink of the Arzi writer is heavier on the scales of judgment than the blood of martyrs." Writing an Arzi forces the believer to:

If your Arzi is accepted and the Dai whispers a prayer for you, the Bohra belief holds that this Dua can alter fate (Badal e Taqdeer).

The Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format is a living document of Islamic bureaucracy fused with Fatimid-era courtly etiquette. Whether you are writing on paper in Surat or typing an email in Detroit, the principles remain constant: Humility, clarity, adherence to the Basmala, and a sincere request for Dua.

By following the templates and rules outlined in this guide, you ensure not only that your petition is processed efficiently by the Dawat office but also that you have performed the act in the spiritual manner expected by the community’s Imamic tradition.

Final Checklist Before Submitting:

When you tick all these boxes, you have mastered the art of the Arzi.

Disclaimer: This article is a general guide based on common community practices as of 2025-2026. Specific wording for the current Dai (Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin TUS) should be verified with your local Jamali office, as titles and postal protocols require precise honorifics.

An Arzi (petition/report) in the Dawoodi Bohra community is a formal communication addressed to His Holiness the Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, the 53rd al-Dai al-Mutlaq. While specific templates can vary based on whether it is for personal matters, business, or community reports, they generally follow a highly structured and respectful format. General Structure of an Arzi

Header & Invocation: Begins with the traditional Arabic invocation (Bismillah) and specific titles for the Syedna.

Araz / Salutations: Standard respectful phrasing (e.g., "Araz che ke...") expressing humility and seeking the Syedna's blessings. Body of the Report:

Introduction: Briefly state who is writing (Individual Name and ITS Number).

Core Content: Clear, concise points about the request or report (e.g., seeking Raza for a business venture, health updates, or academic achievements).

Conclusion: Expresses the desire to remain steadfast in Walayah (devotion) and asks for the Syedna's Dua.

Closing: Sign-off using traditional terms of servitude (e.g., Abde Syedna). Submission Formats

Physical Arzi: Often written in beautiful calligraphy or on official community stationery provided by the local Jamaat or Amil.

Digital Arzi: Many modern petitions are submitted via the ITS (Idaratut Ta’reef al-Shakhsi) portal. These typically include:

ITS Number: A unique 8-digit digital ID card for each member.

Category: Selection of the specific department (e.g., Taiseer-ul-Nikah for marriage or At-Turaath al-Fatimi for religious matters). Key Tips for Writing

Language: Usually written in Lisan al-Dawat (the community's unique dialect of Gujarati, Urdu, and Arabic) or formal English.

Brevity: Keep the content to the point while maintaining the required level of respect.

Supporting Documents: For business or medical reports, attach relevant certificates or letters of recommendation from the local Amil Saheb. Calligraphy in Dawoodi Bohra Culture

An Arzi is a formal petition or letter written by a member of the Dawoodi Bohra community (Mumin) to the spiritual leader, the Dai al-Mutlaq (currently His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin

), or his representatives. It is a traditional and deeply spiritual practice used to seek guidance, blessings (Raza), or provide updates on personal and family matters. Structure and Formatting

An Arzi is typically written in Lisan ud-Dawat, the community’s unique language that blends Arabic, Persian, Urdu, and Gujarati.

Salutation: It begins with traditional Arabic greetings and titles of respect for the Dai al-Mutlaq, often including prayers for his long life (Umr Shareef).

Identification: The writer must include their full name, ITS (E-Jamaat) ID, and location.

Body Content: The message should be concise and respectful. Common topics include: Seeking Raza for business, travel, or weddings. Requesting prayers for health or academic success.

Providing updates on religious milestones, such as Quran memorisation.

Conclusion: The letter ends with a humble closing, often using terms like Araz (submission) and expressing total devotion. Modern Submission Methods

While handwritten Arzis remain a valued tradition, the community has transitioned largely to digital platforms for efficiency and tracking.

Hawaij (Online Arzi): The primary official portal for submitting digital Arzis. Users log in with their ITS ID at hawaij.org or through community-linked portals.

ITS52 Portal: Used for updating personal information or submitting specific administrative requests to Al-Vazarat. dawoodi bohra arzi format

Local Jamaat Office: For certain local matters, an Arzi may be submitted through the local Amil Saheb (head of the local congregation). Key Etiquette (Adab)

is a formal petition or letter written by a member of the Dawoodi Bohra community to the Al-Dai al-Mutlaq

(currently His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin [5, 1]) to seek blessings ( ), guidance, or permission (

While an Arzi is a deeply personal communication, it typically follows a specific, respectful structure. Below is a standard format and content guide. The Standard Arzi Structure 1. The Sarnaam (Heading)

Every Arzi begins with the traditional Fatimi greeting and heading.

بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ

(In the name of Allah, the most Gracious, the most Merciful). Salutation:

It is customary to address His Holiness with titles like "al-Dai al-Mutlaq" or "Aqa Maula (TUS)." 2. The Alqab (Honorifics)

The opening paragraph usually expresses devotion and gratitude for the guidance of the Da'i al-Mutlaq

Often includes prayers for the long life and health of Maula ( Umre Shareef 3. The Araz (The Main Request)

This is where you state your purpose clearly and concisely. Common reasons for an Arzi include: Seeking Dua: For health, business success, or children's education. Seeking Raza (Permission): For marriage, travel, or starting a new business venture. Misaq/Ziyarat: Requests to perform or visit holy sites [3]. 4. The Khidmat (Offering) It is traditional to mention any

(service) you are performing or your commitment to following the community's values, such as abstaining from intoxicants and leading a pious life [4]. 5. The Khatama (Conclusion)

The Arzi ends with a humble plea for acceptance and a final prayer. Signature:

Sign off as "Abde Syedna" (Servant of Syedna) followed by your full name, ITS (Identity Tracking System) number, and city. Sample Arzi Template Bismihi Ta’ala

To the Presence of Al-Dai al-Mutlaq, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin (TUS),

, I, [Your Name], ITS: [Your Number], from [Your City], am writing this humble petition.

By the grace of Allah, I am planning to [State your purpose, e.g., start a new business/get married]. I seek your (permission) and mubarak dua

for barakat and success in this endeavor. I am committed to following your guidance and the tenets of our Dawat.

I pray for your long life and health until the Day of Judgment. Abde Syedna, [Your Signature] Tips for Writing Arzis are typically written in Lisan al-Dawat

(a unique blend of Gujarati, Arabic, and Persian), but they can also be written in English or Gujarati if needed. Submission: Most Arzis are now submitted digitally through the ITS Portal or handed over during a (audience). specific request for a business, marriage, or health-related Arzi?

The Arzi ends by praying for the long life and health of the Da'i. *

Here’s a standard template for a Dawoodi Bohra Arzi (عرضی) — a formal request or application submitted to a Shahzada, Amil, or Mukhi Saheb of the Dawoodi Bohra community.

You can fill in the details in the blanks as needed.

Subject: Arzi for [Purpose: e.g., Marriage, Nikah, Birth, Death, Travel, Business, Misahar, Rukhsati, Taharat, etc.]

To, [Title, e.g., Sahibzada/Mukhi Saheb/Amil Saheb] [Jamaat Name, e.g., Badri Mahal / Burhani Mahal] [City Name]

Date: [Insert Date]

Huzoor,

As Salaam Alaykum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh

Most humbly and respectfully, I, the undersigned, submit this Arzi before Huzoor with the sincerest request.

My details:

Subject of Arzi (tick/state one or more):

☐ Nikah (Marriage): Please grant permission for my nikah with [Name of bride/groom], daughter/son of [Father’s name]. Date proposed: [Date]

☐ Rukhsati (Send-off): Permission for rukhsati on [Date].

☐ Misahar Change: Request to transfer my Misahar from [Old Misahar] to [New Misahar] due to [reason, e.g., new residence].

☐ Birth: The birth of a [son/daughter] on [Date]. Name proposed: [Child’s name]. Request for Dua and name approval.

☐ Death / Fatiha: Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilayhi Raji’un. The passing of my [relation, e.g., mother] on [Date]. Request for Fatiha and burial permission. The Dawoodi Bohra community is a subsect of

☐ Taharat (Ghusl/Kafan): Request for arrangements of Taharat and Kafan for [Deceased name].

☐ Travel (Safar): Requesting Dua and Niyaz permission for travel from [Date] to [Date] to [Destination].

☐ Business / Employment: Request for Dua and permission for [new job/business start].

☐ Other: [Specify]

Huzoor,

I humbly request your Dua Mubarak and permission (ijazat) for the above matter. I am ready to follow all Marhum Moula’s (TUS) guidelines and the jamaat’s rules, including attending any required Misahar meetings and submitting the necessary fees (Niyaz/Chanda) as applicable.

Your humble servant,

(Signature) [Your Full Name]

Date: [Date] Place: [City]

For Office Use Only:

Writing an Arzi (a formal petition or letter) to the Dai al-Mutlaq is a deeply spiritual act for a Dawoodi Bohra, representing a direct bridge of communication for seeking guidance, blessings (duas), or permission (raza).

A "deep" Arzi is more than just a request; it is an expression of aqeeda (faith) and humility. The Spiritual Significance

In the Dawoodi Bohra tradition, the Arzi is a manifestation of the belief that the Dai al-Mutlaq is the spiritual father. Whether it is for a milestone like a wedding, a business venture, or a personal struggle, the Arzi is written with the intention of aligning one's life with the khushi (pleasure) of the Moula. Traditional Arzi Format A formal Arzi generally follows this structure:

Sadr (Heading): Begins with "Abdu Syedna (TUS)" (the slave of Syedna) followed by the name and ITS ID.

Salutations: High honorifics for the Dai, acknowledging his spiritual status. The Core Content:

Shukur: Expressing gratitude for past blessings and the nemat of being in the fold of Dawat.

The Request: Stating the purpose clearly but humbly (e.g., seeking shifa for health, barakat for business, or raza for an event).

Araz: Explicitly asking for duas for iman (faith) and khidmat (service).

Closing: "Araz Karanaar" (The one making the petition) followed by your name. Deep Post Template: "The Ink of Intention" Headline: More Than Words: The Soul of an Arzi

"Writing an Arzi is not just about putting pen to paper; it is about pouring the heart into a vessel of hope. When we begin with ‘Abdu Syedna,’ we aren't just using a title—we are defining our identity through our connection to the Wali of Allah. Every line in an Arzi is a conversation.

The Shukur: We realize that even before we ask for more, we have been given everything.

The Araz: We lay down our worries at the feet of the one who prays for us more than we pray for ourselves.

The Raza: We seek a path that isn't just successful, but blessed.

Next time you write your Arzi, take a moment of silence. Let the ink carry your ikhlas (sincerity). Whether it’s a digital upload on the ITS Portal or a handwritten note placed in the Arizat box, remember: the answer lies in the dua that begins before you even finish writing."

#DawoodiBohra #Aqeeda #SyednaMufaddalSaifuddin #Arzi #SpiritualGrowth Key Tips for Writing

Keep it Concise: While the emotions are deep, the petition should be clear.

Use Lisan al-Dawat: If possible, include traditional phrases like "Maula ni Khushi" or "Dua ni iltemas."

Purity of Intent: Ensure your request aligns with the ethical and spiritual values of the community.

In the Dawoodi Bohra community, an is a formal petition or letter written by a follower (Mumin) to the spiritual leader, the Dai al-Mutlaq , currently His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin

. While traditionally written on paper, it is now commonly managed through the official digital platform , where members use their ITS (EJamaat) ID to submit and track requests. Review of the Arzi Format

The structure of a formal Arzi is rooted in deep respect and follows a specific traditional layout: Tasmia & Heading

: Every Arzi begins with the "Bismillah" followed by specific devotional titles for the Imam and the Dai. Araz (The Petition)

: This is the core body where the Mumin expresses their needs, seeks blessings (Dua), or shares life updates. It is written in Lisan ud-Dawat

, a unique dialect combining Gujarati, Arabic, Persian, and Urdu. Tone & Language

: The tone is exceptionally humble. Authors often refer to themselves in the third person as "Aapno Ghulam" (your servant) or "Aapno Nacheez Mamluk". Submission Methods : Managed via

, ensuring a secure and centralized system for global followers. Critical Rule: Never lie

: During personal audiences (Ziyarat or Bethak), Mumineen may present a handwritten or printed Arzi. The Dawoodi Bohras Key Components for a Successful Arzi ITS Verification

: Ensure your EJamaat ID is active before attempting to use the digital portal. Clarity & Conciseness

: While respectful, the petition should clearly state the purpose (e.g., Nikah permission, business blessings, or health Duas). Correct Titles

: Using the proper honorifics for Syedna (TUS) is a standard requirement for the document's validity within the Dawat. Aljamea-Tus-Saifiyah sample template in Lisan ud-Dawat or guidance on using the Hawaij portal 100th Milad Mubarak of Syedna Burhanuddin | PDF - Scribd

A standard Arzi follows a traditional flow to ensure it is both respectful and effective:

The Address (Sadr): Begin with the formal title and address to the Syedna. It usually starts with phrases like "Abde-Syedna" (Slave of Syedna) followed by your name and ITS (Its52) ID.

The Salutation (Sajda/Salaam): Express deep reverence. Common phrasing includes performing "Sajda-e-Shukr" (prostration of gratitude) for the health and long life of the Syedna.

The Context (Halaat): Briefly describe your current situation. Whether it is regarding business, health, education, or family matters, keep the background factual and brief.

The Request (Iltemas): State clearly what you are seeking—be it "Raza" (permission), "Dua" (blessings), or guidance on a specific decision.

The Closing (Khatimah): End with a final prayer for the Syedna’s long life ("Taa-Qayamat") and a reaffirmation of your loyalty and obedience. Review: What Makes an Arzi "Good"? Why it Matters Humility

Using terms like "Nacheez" (insignificant) or "Abde-Syedna" reflects the spiritual hierarchy and personal devotion. Clarity

The Syedna receives thousands of petitions; being direct about your specific need (e.g., "seeking Raza for a new business") ensures your intent is understood. ITS ID Integration

Including your ITS number is critical for official records and ensures the Jamaat system can track the Arzi if submitted via the Its52 portal. Traditional Language

While English is often used, incorporating key Lisan al-Dawat (the community's language) terms adds a layer of cultural authenticity and respect. Pro-Tips for Submission

Drafting: Many use the Its52 App for digital submissions, which often provides a simplified interface for standard requests like Niyaz or Ziyarat.

Handwritten Arzis: If presenting in person (during a Mulaqat), ensure the handwriting is legible and the paper is clean and formal.

Timing: If your request is time-sensitive (like a wedding date or medical surgery), clearly state the dates at the beginning of the "Request" section.

An "Arzi" (also spelled as "Arzi" or "arzī") is essentially a written petition or a letter addressed to a higher authority within the community, often the Dai al-Mutlaq, who is the spiritual leader of the Dawoodi Bohras. The Arzi format is formal and follows certain conventions that have been passed down through the community's tradition.

The content of an Arzi can vary widely, including prayers, personal supplications, expressions of loyalty, requests for guidance, to more formal business concerning the community. Given the epistolary nature and the religious significance, the Arzi format adheres to specific traditional structures:

The language used is usually Arabic or Urdu, with Arabic being predominantly used for religious expressions and invocations. The script might be Naskh or a similar calligraphic style, reflecting the aesthetic and traditional preferences of the community.

The tradition of Arzi among the Dawoodi Bohras reflects their deep-seated respect for their leadership and their commitment to maintaining ties with their spiritual guide. The act of writing and sending Arzis is considered a means of spiritual growth, an expression of loyalty to the community, and a way to seek guidance from the Dai.

Given the specificity and sensitivity of this topic, detailed resources or direct access to examples might be limited. However, for those interested in Islamic traditions, epistolary practices, or community leadership structures, the Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format offers a fascinating study case.

An Arzi is a formal petition or letter written by a member of the Dawoodi Bohra community to the Dai al-Mutlaq (currently Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin) to seek blessings (duas), guidance, or permission for various life events.

Reviewing the "format" depends on the purpose of your letter, but a standard Arzi follows a highly structured and respectful layout. Standard Arzi Structure

Sadr (Heading): The Arzi traditionally begins with specific religious phrases in Arabic or Lisan ud-Dawat, often starting with "Abdo Syedna" (Slave of Syedna) followed by your name and ITS ID.

The Salutation: Addressing the Syedna with his full titles. This section expresses deep respect and acknowledges his spiritual authority.

The Subject (Maqsad): Clearly state why you are writing. Common reasons include: Seeking Raza (permission) for marriage or business. Requesting Shifa (healing) for health issues. Asking for Misaq or naming a newborn. General Arizu for Barakat (blessings).

The Body: Keep this concise. Use humble language, often referring to yourself in the third person (e.g., "This humble servant requests...").

Conclusion: Ending with a prayer for the long life of the Syedna ("May Allah grant our Moula a healthy and long life until the day of Qayamat"). Tips for a Proper Format

Lisan ud-Dawat: While English is sometimes used for clarity in modern contexts, it is traditional and more formal to write (or have it written) in Lisan ud-Dawat (the community's language) The Dawoodi Bohras.

Handwriting: It is still highly preferred to handwrite an Arzi on clean, high-quality white paper to show effort and sincerity.

Conciseness: The Syedna receives thousands of letters; keeping your point clear and brief is considered respectful.

Submission: Most members now use the ITS (Istibsharat) Portal to submit digital Arzis or track the status of their requests. Where to Find Templates

Since the specific wording can change based on the occasion (e.g., a "Nikah Arzi" vs. a "Business Arzi"), you can often find pre-formatted templates or guidance through:

Local Jamaat Office: Your local Amil Saheb or Jamaat office usually provides standard templates for common requests.

E-Arzi Portals: Many community-run apps and the official ITS portal have guided fields that help you format the digital version correctly.