Dawoodi Bohra Arzi Format

The Arzi is a formal written petition or request used within the Dawoodi Bohra community to communicate with their spiritual leader, the al-Dai al-Mutlaq. This tradition allows community members (Mumineen) to seek guidance, spiritual blessings (du'a), or resolution for personal and professional matters. Writing an Arzi is considered a deeply respectful act, reflecting the community’s values of humility and tradition. Standard Dawoodi Bohra Arzi Structure

An Arzi follows a specific formal structure to ensure the message is delivered with the appropriate level of respect and clarity.

The Salawat: Every Arzi typically begins with the Salawat (e.g., “Allahumma salli 'ala Muhammad wa Aal-e Muhammad”) to invoke blessings.

The Salutation: It is addressed with high respect, often starting with "Respected Dai-al-Mutlaq" or referring to His Holiness as "Huzurala".

Introduction of the Petitioner: The writer identifies themselves, often using humble language such as, "I, [Your Name], a humble and devoted member of the Dawoodi Bohra community...".

Purpose of the Arzi: A clear statement of why the letter is being written—whether for seeking blessings for a marriage, guidance on a business venture, or health concerns.

Details of the Request: A concise description of the specific issue or situation. It is recommended to be factual and brief while maintaining a tone of devotion.

The Prayer/Request: A final respectful plea for the Dai's guidance or prayers.

Closing and Signature: The letter ends with a humble sign-off and the petitioner’s full name. Key Language and Etiquette

Lisan al-Dawat: While many Arzis are written in English or local languages today, they often incorporate terms from Lisan al-Dawat, the community’s unique language that blends Gujarati syntax with Arabic and Persian vocabulary.

Tone of Humility: The language used is deliberately modest. Mumineen often refer to themselves as "Abde Syedna" (servant of Syedna) to express their spiritual bond.

Brevity and Clarity: Given the high volume of correspondence the office receives, it is advised to keep the Arzi focused on the core issue without unnecessary length. Submission Methods Dawoodi Bohra Arzi Format ((top))

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

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. The Arzi is a formal written petition or

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: Official E-Arzi Addresses (Standard across global admin)

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.

The Arzi is a formal written application or petition submitted to the Da'i al-Mutlaq (the spiritual leader) of the Dawoodi Bohra community. It is a means for a mumin (believer) to seek guidance, blessings, permission (Raza), or remedies for personal, medical, or financial difficulties.

Because the Arzi is a representation of your needs before the highest authority in the faith, it follows a strict, traditional format rooted in respect and adab (etiquette).

Here is a comprehensive guide to the Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format.

Official E-Arzi Addresses (Standard across global admin)

Always check your local Aamil's notice board for the official current email address, as these change with administrative shifts.

Part 3: The Digital Transition — E-Arzi (Email Format)

In the last decade, the Dawoodi Bohra administration has modernized. While physical Arzis on white paper are still accepted at Jamali (community centers) and Alvaz (offices), the E-Arzi (Email) is now the gold standard for speed.

Zone 2: The Addressee (Humble Submission)

This section requires the highest level of respect. You must address the Aqa Maula (the Dai) or the Shahzada (Trustee).

Example: مُتَضَرِّعًا اِلَى جَنَابِهِ الْعَالِىْ اَعْلَى الله مَقَامَهُ (Prostrating in humility to His Eminence—may Allah elevate his station)

Zone 1: The Superscription (Top Margin)

The Arzi must start with the Basmala and Hamdala.

Note: Never write out the holy names fully if the Arzi will be thrown away. Use abbreviations like "S.A.W." or "S.M." to protect sanctity.

Structure & tone (use this for every arzi)