Bohra Arzi Format Updated - Dawoodi
The Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format updated represents a harmonious blend of centuries-old religious etiquette and 21st-century data management. For community members, staying informed about these changes is not just a matter of convenience—it is a mark of respect for the systematic approach of the Dalat-il-Mutlaqah.
Always consult your local Aamil or the official community portal before drafting an Arzi, as minor format updates may roll out after each Majlis-e-Shariah session. By following the updated guidelines—using bilingual structured fields, QR codes, and Misaaq IDs—you ensure that your petition receives swift, accurate, and blessed consideration.
Remember: In the Dawoodi Bohra tradition, a correctly submitted Arzi is not just a form. It is a Dua wrapped in ink, seeking barakat at every administrative step.
Disclaimer: This guide is based on publicly circulated guidelines as of 2024–2025. Specific requirements may vary by region. Always verify the latest Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format with your local Jammat office.
Introduction
The Dawoodi Bohra community, a Shia Muslim sect, has a rich tradition of liturgical prayers and devotional practices. One of the essential components of these practices is the Arzi, a supplication or a prayer offered to Allah, which is an integral part of the community's spiritual and cultural heritage. The Arzi format has undergone updates to ensure its relevance and effectiveness in modern times.
The Traditional Arzi Format
Traditionally, the Arzi format consisted of a written prayer, usually in Arabic or Gujarati, which was recited by the community members during specific occasions, such as congregational prayers, festivals, or special events. The traditional format included various elements, such as:
The Updated Arzi Format
The updated Arzi format, introduced by the Dawoodi Bohra community, aims to incorporate modern elements while maintaining the essence of the traditional prayer. The updates include:
Impact and Reception
The updated Arzi format has been well-received by the Dawoodi Bohra community worldwide. Many community members appreciate the effort to preserve the traditional practices while adapting to modern needs.
Positive Aspects
Constructive Feedback
While the updated Arzi format has been well-received, some community members have suggested areas for improvement:
Conclusion
The updated Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format is a positive step towards preserving the community's spiritual and cultural heritage while adapting to modern needs. The simplified language, additional themes, and structured format make the Arzi more accessible and relevant to a wider audience. While there may be some constructive feedback, the updated format has been well-received by the community, and its impact will likely be felt for generations to come.
For Dawoodi Bohra community members, writing an Arzi (formal petition) to His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin
is a sacred practice used to seek spiritual guidance, blessings (duas), or administrative permissions.
The updated process has shifted significantly toward digital submission through the ITS (eJamaat) Portal, centralizing all communications for the global community of approximately one million members. Modern Arzi Submission Methods
Historically sent via post or email, Arzis are now primarily managed through official digital channels to ensure they reach the Office of the Al-Dai al-Mutlaq efficiently.
ITS Portal (Hawaij Section): Members should log in using their ITS ID to submit "Hawaij" (requests). This system allows users to track the status of their petition in one place.
Local Jamaat Office: For complex matters like Nikah (marriage) registration or land-related requests, members often submit through their local Amils or Jamaat secretaries who then forward the request through official administrative channels. Updated Arzi Structure & Etiquette
While the medium has changed, the traditional Lisan ud-Dawat (the community's language) remains the standard for formal petitions. A standard Arzi generally follows this structural hierarchy: Content & Purpose Tusallem
The formal opening salutation, expressing submission and respect to the Dai al-Mutlaq. Araz (The Core)
A concise explanation of the intent (e.g., seeking health duas, business blessings, or permission for travel). Personal Details
Inclusion of the primary petitioner's ITS ID and name for digital tracking. Closing
A formal sign-off requesting the continuous shade and long life of the Syedna. Key Tips for a Clear Submission
To ensure a professional and respectful presentation in the digital format:
Be Concise: Avoid repetitive language; focus on the primary request clearly to respect the recipient's time.
Subject Lines: If using a digital form, use a clear subject (e.g., "Request for Dua – Surgery" or "Business Opening") so it can be prioritized by the administrative office.
Verification: Ensure all ITS IDs for family members mentioned in the Arzi are accurate to prevent administrative delays.
Traditional Script: If writing manually for a physical event, use high-quality paper and follow the traditional vertical alignment specific to Lisan ud-Dawat. About the Bohras - The Dawoodi Bohras
While there is no single "official article" titled exactly "dawoodi bohra arzi format updated" for April 2026, the community standard for submitting an Arzi (a formal petition or letter) to His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin has evolved to prioritize digital submission through official portals like ITS (Its52).
Below is the current best practice and updated format for writing an Arzi based on community guidelines: 1. Submission Methods
ITS Portal (Preferred): Most Arzis are now submitted digitally via the Its52 portal
. This ensures the Arzi is linked to your official ITS profile and is tracked by the Huzurala (TUS) Secretariat.
Physical Arzi: While digital is preferred, physical copies are still accepted at the Devdi Mubarak or through the local Amil Saheb 2. Updated Arzi Format & Structure
A formal Arzi should follow this specific structural etiquette:
Header (ITS Details): Always include your ITS ID, Full Name, and Sector/Jamaat at the top right.
Salutation (Tazeem): Begin with the appropriate spiritual titles for His Holiness.
Standard opening: "Abde Syedna (TUS) [Your Name] ni Arzi che..."
The Request (Maqsad): Be extremely concise. Use bullet points if you have multiple requests.
State the purpose clearly (e.g., seeking Raza for a business, marriage, nikah, or health shifa).
If referring to a previous Arzi, mention the date or reference number if available.
Closing: Conclude with a prayer for the long life and health of His Holiness (Dua ni iltemas).
Standard closing: "Maula (TUS) ni hazrat ma tawassul ane dua ni iltemas." 3. Key Writing Tips
Language: While English is accepted, using Lisan ud-Dawat (the community's language) is highly encouraged for spiritual correspondence.
Brevity: High-ranking officials often review these; keep your main point in the first paragraph.
Official Stationery: If writing a physical letter for community business, use official community stationery provided by your local Jamaat. 4. Verification & Support
For specific administrative queries or to ensure you are using the most current digital form, you should: Contact your local Jamaat Office or Amil Saheb.
Check for updates on the Official Website of the Dawoodi Bohras regarding major community announcements. Official Website of the Dawoodi Bohra Muslim Community
Dawoodi Bohra arzi (petition) is a formal medium of communication between a community member and the Dawoodi Bohra leadership, specifically the 53rd al-Dai al-Mutlaq, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin
While "paper" typically refers to academic or formal documentation, in the context of the community, it often pertains to the standardized structure used for requesting blessings ( ), seeking guidance ( ), or submitting personal reports. Standard Structure of a Dawoodi Bohra Arzi The arzi is written in Lisan al-Dawat
, a unique language combining Arabic, Persian, Urdu, and Gujarati. Araz / Header
Begins with standard honorifics for the Dai, acknowledging his spiritual status as the 53rd al-Dai al-Mutlaq Common phrase: "Abde Syedna (TUS)..." (Slave of Syedna). Introduction The petitioner identifies themselves using their ITS (Idara-e-Taheriyah) number, full name, and local (city/neighborhood). Core Content (The Petition) dawoodi bohra arzi format updated
: Clearly states the reason for the arzi, such as travel, business ventures, educational pursuits, or health matters.
: Must be humble, respectful, and concise, adhering to the community's values of good character and gratitude Closing and Seeking Raza Ends with a request for dua-ul-khair (prayers for goodness) and (permission). Standard closing:
"Khuda Taala hamara maula Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin ni umre shareef ne qayamat na din lag daraz ane daraz kare."
(May Allah lengthen the life of our leader until the Day of Judgment). Updated Practices (2024-2026) Digital Integration : Most arzis are now submitted through the ITS portal
or dedicated apps, allowing for tracking and faster responses. Conciseness
: Updated guidelines emphasize brevity, focusing on the core request to manage the high volume of petitions received globally. Lisan al-Dawat
remains the standard, clear and simple phrasing is encouraged for clarity. Common Arzi Types Nikaah (Marriage) : Requesting permission and blessings for a wedding. Taleem (Education)
: Seeking guidance on higher education or choosing a field of study. Tejarat (Business)
: Informing the leadership of new business startups or seeking barakat for existing ones.
In the tightly-knit, organized, and faith-driven community of the Dawoodi Bohras, documentation is not merely administrative; it is a blend of tradition, religious discipline, and modern efficiency. Central to this system is the Arzi – a formal petition or application submitted by a community member to the Dalat-il-Mutlaqah (the office of the current al-Dai al-Mutlaq) or local Aamil (community leader).
For decades, the format of the Arzi remained handwritten, steeped in classical Arabic and Urdu scripts. However, in response to digital transformation and the need for standardisation, the Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format updated in recent years reflects a shift toward clarity, accessibility, and systematic online processing.
This article provides a detailed breakdown of the updated Arzi format, its sections, its linguistic requirements, and the correct submission procedure.
This report describes the updated arzi (formal petition/request) format used by members of the Dawoodi Bohra community to communicate requests to community authorities or administrative offices. It covers purpose, typical structure, required information, tone and etiquette, filing process, common variations, sample template, and recommendations for clarity and compliance.
Write a clear subject in bold or underlined. Examples:
If you’d like, I can:
Writing an Arzi (petition) to His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin in 2026 combines traditional Fatimi etiquette with modern digital, utilizing the ITS portal for submission. The updated format requires a clear Sarnama, personal ITS-52 number, and concise, active-voice content in Lisan al-Dawat for seeking Raza or Dua. For more official resources or to download templates for various community initiatives, visit thedawoodibohras.com
Writing an Arzi (petition or letter) to the Al-Dai al-Mutlaq, currently His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, is a sacred tradition for Dawoodi Bohras. Whether you are seeking spiritual guidance, Raza (permission) for personal milestones, or reporting community matters, following the updated format ensures your request is handled with the appropriate respect and efficiency. Essential Components of a Modern Arzi
The format of an Arzi has evolved to stay concise while maintaining the traditional etiquette of Lisan ud-Dawat. 1. The Heading and Salutation
Every Arzi must begin with the proper spiritual titles for the Dai.
Standard Opening: Start with "Abdo-kum-ul-Mamluk" (Your humble servant) followed by your name and ITS ID.
Addressing His Holiness: Use the full titles such as "Al-Dai al-Ajal Syedna Aali Qadr Mufaddal Saifuddin TUS". 2. The Subject Line (Clear & Concise)
With the high volume of petitions received at the official Dawat office, a clear subject line is vital.
Example: "Arzi for Nikah Raza" or "Arzi for Business Barakat." 3. The Body (Nass)
Language: While Lisan ud-Dawat is preferred, Arzis can be written in English or Arabic if needed.
Brevity: Be direct. State the purpose of the Arzi in the first paragraph.
Tone: Maintain a tone of extreme humility and devotion (Araz). 4. The Conclusion and Signature
Close by seeking the Dai’s Dua and Shifa. Include your contact details, current location, and your local Jamaat name. Updated Submission Channels
As of 2024–2026, the community has integrated more digital options for submission:
ITS Portal: Most Arzis, especially for routine permissions like travel or educational Raza, are now submitted through the ITS (Istibsharat) website.
Local Jamaat Office: For significant matters, submitting a physical copy through your local Amil Saheb or Jamaat office remains the standard procedure.
Direct Email: In specific regions, dedicated email addresses are used for administrative queries. Best Practices for 2026
Handwriting vs. Typing: While typed Arzis are acceptable for digital portals, many Mumineen still prefer hand-written Arzis for personal matters as a mark of devotion.
Verification: Ensure all personal details, especially your ITS ID, are 100% accurate to avoid processing delays.
Follow-up: Check your status on the official community resources or through the Dawoodi Bohra App notifications. His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin - The Dawoodi Bohras
An Arzi is a formal petition or letter of supplication addressed by a member of the Dawoodi Bohra community to the al-Dai al-Mutlaq (currently His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin). It is a sacred medium used to seek spiritual guidance, permission (raza), or blessings (du'a) for personal, professional, or religious matters.
The updated format for 2026 emphasizes clarity, humility, and adherence to traditional linguistic protocols. 1. The Header: Tasleem and Titles
The Arzi must begin with the traditional Fatemi protocol. This section is never omitted and is written with extreme reverence.
Abadat/Tasleem: Use the standard phrase: "Abdu Syedna (TUS) [Your Name] tasleem arz kare che." (The servant of Syedna [Name] offers his salutations).
Addressing His Holiness: Refer to Syedna using his full titles, typically: "Bawa Shafiq His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin (TUS)." 2. The Core Message (The "Arz")
Contemporary guidelines suggest keeping the body of the Arzi concise and structured to ensure it can be processed efficiently by the Office of the Al-Dai al-Mutlaq.
Purpose First: Clearly state why you are writing (e.g., Nikah raza, starting a new business, health issues, or seeking a name for a newborn).
Personal Details: Always include your ITS (Information Technology Services) ID. This is the primary identifier for all community members in the global database.
Current Context: If the Arzi is regarding a business or a new venture, briefly mention your current occupation or location. 3. Language Protocols
While Lisan ud-Dawat (the unique language of the community) is preferred, modern Arzis can be written in English or other languages if the individual is more comfortable, provided the opening and closing follow the traditional format.
Tone: The tone must be "Khuzu" (humble). Avoid using "I" or "me" excessively; instead, use "Aqa Moula no adna mureed" (this humble follower of Aqa Moula).
Specific Requests: Be specific in your request for du'a. For example, instead of "Please pray for me," use "Requesting special du'a for Shifa (healing) from [specific illness]." 4. Closing: Intezar-ul-Amr
The conclusion of the Arzi signifies your submission to the Dai’s guidance.
Standard Closing: "Je amr thaase emal karees." (I will act according to whatever command is given).
Final Salutation: End with a prayer for Syedna’s long life: "Allah Ta'ala Moula ni umr shareef ne qayamat na din lag daraz ane daraz kare. Ameen." 5. Submission Channels
Digital Submission: Most Arzis are now submitted via the official ITS portal or local Jamaat apps. This ensures they are tracked and reach the relevant department (Daftar).
Physical Arzi: If handing a physical copy during a Ziyarat or Bethak, ensure it is on clean, high-quality white paper, preferably placed in a simple, respectful envelope. Official Website of the Dawoodi Bohra Muslim Community
Title: Tradition in the Digital Age: An Analysis of the Updated Dawoodi Bohra Arzi Format
Introduction
The Dawoodi Bohra community is distinguished by its unwavering adherence to Fatimid traditions, a central pillar of which is the concept of rusum (customs and etiquette). Among the most sacred of these customs is the Arzi, the formal audience granted by the Da’i al-Mutlaq (the spiritual leader) to his followers. Historically, the Arzi was a ceremonious physical gathering, governed by strict protocols of dress, posture, and speech. However, the advent of the digital era, catalyzed by global connectivity and the necessities of the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitated a profound evolution in this practice. The "updated" Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format represents a fascinating case study of how a conservative, tradition-bound community navigates the tension between preserving the sanctity of ancient rituals and adapting to the pragmatism of modern technology.
The Traditional Framework: Ritual and Protocol The Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format updated represents a
To understand the significance of the update, one must first appreciate the rigidity of the traditional format. In the pre-digital era, the Arzi was a physical manifestation of hierarchy and devotion. Followers traveled to the seat of the Dawat (often Mumbai or specific centers during tours) to seek an audience. The protocol required men to wear the traditional libas (kurta and izar) with the topi (cap) and a flowing sayyi (cloak) for those initiated. Women adhered to the rida.
The structure of the Arzi itself was governed by the dastur (protocol). A mizan (attendant) regulated the flow, instructing followers on where to sit, when to stand, and when to recite the salam. The spatial arrangement was significant; the distance from the Syedna’s seat reflected rank and the occasion. The emotional weight of the Arzi lay in its physicality—the proximity to the spiritual leader, the hushed atmosphere of the hall, and the direct, eye-to-eye interaction. This format, unchanged for decades, was not merely a meeting but a spiritual pilgrimage in miniature.
The Catalyst for Change: Technology and Necessity
The transition to an updated format was inevitable but accelerated by two primary factors: the geographic dispersal of the Bohra diaspora and the global lockdowns of 2020. As the community grew in North America, Europe, and Australia, the logistics of traveling to Mumbai for a brief audience became increasingly difficult for many families.
However, the definitive shift occurred during the tenure of the 53rd Dai, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The cessation of travel and the closure of religious centers threatened to sever the vital link between the leader and the flock. The response was the institutionalization of the "Virtual Arzi" or "E-Arzi." While the community had utilized video conferencing for business and organizational meetings (Tanzimat) previously, applying it to the sacred Arzi was a paradigm shift that required a re-imagining of the dastur.
The Updated Format: Virtual Proximity and New Protocols
The "updated Arzi format" is a hybrid of maintained tradition and digital mediation. It typically involves a video conference via platforms like Zoom or dedicated community portals. Yet, contrary to the casual nature of standard video calls, the Arzi retains its solemnity through updated protocols.
In the updated format, the physical libas and rida remain non-negotiable. The "screen" becomes the new dastarkhan (threshold). Followers are instructed to sit at a respectful distance from the camera, ensuring their entire upper body is visible to replicate the perspective of a physical audience. Posture remains crucial; followers must sit with legs folded to the side, maintaining the humility required in the leader's presence.
The language and flow of the Arzi have also been adapted. In a physical setting, a mizan whispers instructions. In the updated digital format, the interface itself guides the process, or an administrator facilitates the transition from the "waiting room" to the "audience." Despite the digital barrier, the core linguistic components—the recitation of the Salam, the presentation of requests (araz), and the seeking of blessings—remain identical.
Implications of the Update
This update has democratized access to the spiritual leader. Previously, an Arzi was a luxury of time and means; today, a family in Toronto or a student in London can seek an audience with relative ease. This has strengthened the emotional bond between the global diaspora and the leadership, allowing for more frequent, albeit shorter, interactions.
However, the shift raises theological and sociological questions regarding the concept of hazri (presence). Does a pixelated image carry the same barakaat (blessings) as a physical presence? The community’s acceptance of the updated format suggests a pragmatic theological approach: the intent (niyyat) and the obedience to the Dai validate the ritual, regardless of the medium. The leadership’s endorsement of the digital format effectively sanctified the technology, transforming a secular tool into a vessel for religious continuity.
Conclusion
The updated Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format is not a rejection of tradition but a recontextualization of it. By retaining the sartorial codes, linguistic etiquette, and hierarchical reverence, the community has successfully transposed a medieval ritual into the 21st century. The "update" demonstrates that for the Dawoodi Bohras, technology is not a force that dilutes tradition, but a conduit that ensures its survival and accessibility. As the world continues to evolve, this updated format serves as a blueprint for how ancient religious institutions can maintain relevance and intimacy in an increasingly fragmented and digital world.
The Dawoodi Bohra community is known for its organized administrative structure and the deep-rooted tradition of seeking guidance from the Aali Qadr Mufaddal Saifuddin TUS. Writing an Arzi (a formal petition or letter) is the primary way a follower communicates their life events, seeks blessings (Dua), or asks for permission (Raza) for various matters.
In recent years, the process has shifted toward digital platforms like the ITS (Its-52) portal, requiring a specific approach to formatting. Below is a comprehensive guide to the updated Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format. 🏗️ The Core Structure of an Arzi
A standard Arzi follows a hierarchical flow to ensure it conveys respect and clarity.
The Salami (Salutation): Always begins with "Abde Syedna TUS" or "Amatde Syedna TUS" followed by the formal Arabic greetings and prayers for the long life of Maula TUS.
The Objective: State clearly why you are writing (e.g., Nikah, Business, Travel, Shifa).
The Details: Provide the necessary context (names, ITS IDs, dates, and locations). The Araz: The specific request or prayer you are seeking.
The Khatam (Closing): Reaffirming submission and seeking the "Nazar-e-Karam" of Maula TUS. 📝 Updated Formats for Common Occasions 1. Arzi for Shifa (Health and Healing)
When seeking Dua for health, it is essential to be concise about the medical condition. Format: Name of the Patient: [Full Name] ITS ID: [Number] Ailment: [Brief description of illness/surgery] Hospital/City: [Location]
Araz: Seek Shifa-e-Kaamila and the Barakat of Maula’s Dua for a successful recovery. 2. Arzi for Nikah (Marriage)
For Nikah Raza, the administration often requires more specific data to verify the "Misaq" and "Jamaat" clearance. Format: Groom’s Name & ITS: [Details] Bride’s Name & ITS: [Details] Proposed Date: [Hijri and Gregorian dates] Venue: [City and Markaz]
Araz: Seeking Raza for Nikah and the "Sehra" of Maula’s Dua for a "Mubarak" union. 3. Arzi for Business or House Warming
If you are starting a new venture or moving into a new home, the focus is on "Barakat." Format: Nature of Business: [Industry/Type] Location: [Address] Opening Date: [Date]
Araz: Praying for "Rizq-e-Halaal" and seeking Raza to begin the venture with the "Nazaraat" of Maula TUS. 💻 Digital Submission via ITS Portal
Most Arzis are now submitted through the Its-52.com portal or the official mobile app. Steps for Online Submission: Log in: Use your ITS ID and password.
Navigate to 'E-Arzi': Look for the "Araz" or "Correspondence" section.
Select Category: Choose the correct tag (e.g., Nikah, Ziyarat, Business).
Drafting: Use the text box to type your Arzi. Note that many portals now have a character limit, so keep the Arabic prayers standard and the body text concise.
Attachments: If you are attaching medical reports or business plans, ensure they are in PDF format and under the size limit. ✅ Best Practices for 2024-2025
Be Truthful: Always provide accurate information, as details are often verified through local Jamaat records.
Mention Wajebaat: Ensure your "Wajebaat" (Taxes/Contributions) are cleared, as this is often a prerequisite for Raza in administrative matters.
Keep it Brief: Maula TUS receives thousands of Arzis. Using bullet points for dates and names helps the "Khidmat-fuz" process your request faster.
Local Jamaat Attestation: For physical Arzis, always get the signature/stamp of your local Aamil Saheb before sending it to the central office (Devdi Mubarak). ❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I write an Arzi in English?A: Yes, English and Lisan-ud-Dawat are both widely accepted. However, the opening and closing prayers should ideally remain in Arabic as per tradition.
Q: How long does it take to get a reply?A: It varies. Urgent matters like Shifa are processed quickly. Administrative Raza (like Nikah) should be submitted at least 2-4 weeks in advance.
Q: Should I include my family’s ITS IDs?A: Yes, if the matter involves the whole family (like Ziyarat or a new home), including all IDs ensures the Barakat is recorded for everyone.
If you are currently drafting a specific request, let me know:
What is the purpose of the Arzi? (Business, Marriage, Health, etc.) Are you submitting it physically or via the ITS portal?
The traditional (petition or letter) is a vital means of communication for members of the Dawoodi Bohra community to seek the guidance, blessings, or counsel of the al-Dai al-Mutlaq , currently Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin
While the core principles of humility and devotion remain constant, the community has adopted digital platforms to streamline this process. Standard Arzi Structure An Arzi is typically written in Lisan al-Dawat
, the unique language of the community. It generally follows this updated sequence: Salutation and Devotion
: The letter begins with high-register honorifics expressing devotion to the Imam and his Dai. Modern Arzis often include standard opening phrases (Kalemaat) that reflect current community themes, such as those related to Ashara Mubaraka Identification : Clear identification of the sender is mandatory. ITS / E-Jamaat ID
: This digital ID is the primary way to verify the member's identity. Full Name and City : Essential for administrative tracking within the global community network The Petition (Hajaat)
: This section contains the specific request, whether it is for health, business, education, or spiritual guidance. Niyyat (Intention)
: Modern formats, especially for specific events, often include a "check-list" style section for (intentions for good deeds or
) as a way of expressing commitment in exchange for blessings.
: Ends with a standard prayer for the longevity and health of the Dai (Syedna). Current Submission Methods There are two primary ways to submit an Arzi today:
A very specific and niche topic!
After conducting research, I found that the Dawoodi Bohra community uses a specific format for submitting Arzi (applications or petitions) to their spiritual leader, known as the Dai-al-Mutlaq. Here is a guide on the updated Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format:
What is Arzi? Arzi is a formal application or petition submitted by a Dawoodi Bohra community member to their spiritual leader, seeking guidance, blessings, or resolution to a specific issue.
Importance of Arzi In the Dawoodi Bohra community, Arzi is considered a vital means of communication between the community members and their spiritual leader. It is a way to seek guidance, blessings, and to demonstrate one's devotion and loyalty to the Dai-al-Mutlaq.
Updated Dawoodi Bohra Arzi Format The updated format for submitting Arzi is as follows: Disclaimer: This guide is based on publicly circulated
Format Guidelines Here is a sample format:
"As-salamu alaykum,
[Salawat: e.g., Allahumma salli 'ala Muhammad wa Aal-e Muhammad]
Respected Dai-al-Mutlaq,
I, [Your Name], a humble and devoted member of the Dawoodi Bohra community, residing at [Your Address], humbly submit this Arzi to your esteemed presence.
[Purpose of Arzi: e.g., I am writing to seek your guidance and blessings regarding a specific issue.]
[Details of the Issue: e.g., On [Date], I faced [briefly describe the issue].]
In light of the above, I respectfully request [specifically state your request or prayer].
May Allah, the Almighty, guide me and grant me the wisdom to make the right decision.
Wa alaykum as-salam,
[Your Name]"
Submission The Arzi can be submitted:
Tips and Reminders
By following this updated guide, you can ensure that your Arzi is properly formatted and effectively communicates your concerns and requests to the Dai-al-Mutlaq.
Title: The Digital Resurrection
Yusuf uncle was a man of routine. Every Sunday morning, without fail, he would sit at his dusty study desk, pull out a fresh sheet of crisp, white paper, and uncork his fountain pen. For the Dawoodi Bohra community, the Arzi—a formal written petition to the Syedna, the spiritual leader—was a sacred tradition. It was the medium through which a believer sought guidance, blessings, or forgiveness.
For forty years, Yusuf had written Arzis for his family. He knew the format by heart: the invocation, the humble salutations, the intricate floral borders drawn by hand, and the respectful conclusion. His handwriting was calligraphy; his soul was poured into the ink.
But the world was changing.
One evening, his grandson, Huzaifa, a twenty-something software engineer, walked into the study holding a tablet. "Nana," he said, his voice tentative. "Did you see the message on the group chat?"
Yusuf peered over his spectacles. "Which group chat? The one where people send pictures of dinner?"
Huzaifa smiled. "No, the official one. The administration has announced something. They said the Dawoodi Bohra Arzi format has been updated."
Yusuf frowned, putting down his pen. "Updated? How can you update a prayer? It is a conversation between the soul and the Dai. You do not 'update' devotion."
"It’s not about devotion, Nana. It’s about logistics," Huzaifa explained, sitting on the edge of the desk. He swiped the screen and handed the tablet over. "Look. The central office has digitized the process. There is a new template now. A standard font, a specific margin, and a digital submission portal."
Yusuf stared at the glowing screen. It looked sterile. Gone were the personal flourishes, the slight tremble in the ink that betrayed a heavy heart, the elaborate hand-drawn borders that took an hour to complete. It was a form. A standardized, Times New Roman form.
"It lacks warmth," Yusuf muttered, pushing the tablet away. "It feels like filing a tax return, not asking for the Shahzada’s grace."
"It’s faster," Huzaifa countered gently. "It translates everything automatically. And see here—the new format has a section for specific file attachments. Medical reports, travel documents. It streamlines the process so the office can process thousands of requests faster."
Yusuf sighed, looking at his blank sheet of paper. He felt a sudden, heavy pang of obsolescence. He was the designated writer for half the elders in his building. They came to him because they trusted his hand to carry their words. If a machine could do it, what was his place?
"Try it, Nana," Huzaifa urged. "Just once. For Uncle Farid. He needs a health arzi urgently. If we send it tonight, they see it tomorrow morning. The paper mail takes a week."
Yusuf looked at the photo of Farid on the shelf—a man who had been by his side since childhood, now frail and ailing. The thought of a week’s delay stung his conscience.
"Show me," Yusuf conceded gruffly.
Huzaifa opened the portal. He typed in the details. Name, Address, Age. The cursor blinked with rhythmic impatience. Then came the main body.
"You type the message here," Huzaifa said.
Yusuf hesitated. He didn't know how to type fast. He felt clumsy, his fingers hovering over the keys like strangers in a new land. "I..." He faltered. "I cannot write like this. My thoughts do not flow through plastic keys."
Huzaifa had a solution. "Dictate it to me, Nana. Tell me what to say."
Yusuf closed his eyes. He thought of Farid. He thought of their youth, their shared struggles, and the peace they sought in their twilight years. He ignored the technology and spoke from the heart.
"Mention that he is the son of Bhaijan," Yusuf began, his voice gaining strength. "Tell the Moula that he has served the community with a smile for decades. Tell him that his legs have grown weak, but his faith stands tall. Ask for the Nazarat... ask for the healing gaze."
Huzaifa typed furiously, transcribing the words. But the software was smart. It auto-corrected. It aligned the text into the 'Updated Format.' It centered the title. It bolded the salutations.
When Huzaifa turned the screen back around, Yusuf stared.
It wasn't the same. It didn't have the smell of paper or the scratch of the nib. But on the screen, in a clean, elegant Arabic script font, was his message. It looked official. It looked like it belonged in the grand halls of the administration.
"It looks... proper," Yusuf admitted, a hint of surprise in his voice.
"Ready to send?" Huzaifa asked.
Yusuf looked at his fountain pen, resting in its case. Then he looked at the screen, where the 'Submit' button glowed like a beacon.
"Send it," Yusuf said.
Huzaifa tapped the screen. A small animation played—a checkmark in a circle. "Arzi Submitted Successfully."
Three days later, a reply came. It wasn't a letter in the post. It was a notification on the app, followed by a phone call from a local Amil. The news was good. The Arzi had been seen, and the blessings had been granted. Farid was overcome with joy, clutching the phone as if it were gold.
That Sunday, Yusuf sat at his desk again. He took out his pen and paper. He began to draw a border. But halfway through, he stopped.
He pulled the tablet toward him. He opened the new format.
"Humanity updates its tools," he whispered to himself, "but the intent remains."
He clicked 'New Arzi.' He didn't need to write a petition today, but he wanted to practice. He wanted to master this new vessel, so that he could fill it with the same old spirit. The format had changed, the ink had turned to pixels, but the prayer, he realized, was eternal.
Previously, members wrote long, emotional narratives. The new format requires bullet points and specific fields. Emotional context is secondary; factual clarity is primary.
Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim
Allahumma Salli ala Muhammad wa Aale MuhammadTo:
Hadd Aali Hazrat, Shehzada Saheb (or Amil Saheb)
Dawoodi Bohra Jamaat, [City Name]From:
Name: _______________
Father’s Name: _______________
HOF No.: _______________ | Misal No.: _______________
Mobile: _______________ | Jamaat: _______________Subject: Arzi for Taubah – Missed Fasts (Qadha)
Respected Hadd Aali,
I humbly submit that due to illness last Ramadan, I could not keep 5 fasts. I seek guidance and Taubah. I have attached a doctor’s note (if required).Kindly grant me the proper Rida and Dua to perform Kaffara/Qadha.
Thank you for your sacred Dua.
Wa’s Salam,
[Signature]
[Date]