Bohras
Bohras - The Bohras are a group numbering approximately one million, residing in regions such as India, Pakistan, the Middle East, East Africa, and the West. The name “Bohras” comes from the Gujarati word “vahaurau,” meaning “to trade,” reflecting the community’s mercantile heritage.
History and Origins
The Bohras trace their spiritual lineage to eleventh-century Indian Hindu converts to Ismaili Shiism. This conversion marks the community’s integration into the broader Ismaili Shia tradition that venerates the descendants of Imām Ja’far al-Sadiq.
Subgroups
There are several subgroups within the Bohra community, the most prominent being the Daudi Bohras. This group is renowned for its wealth, organization, and robust religious leadership. They are led by the dais, the current dai being Muhammad Burhanuddin. The dais are well-known for their oratory skills and extensive written contributions to religious literature. Another significant subgroup is the Sulaymani Bohras, primarily located in Yemen.
Religious Beliefs and Practices
The Bohras espouse a unique form of Shiism adhering to the Fatimid school of jurisprudence. They recognize seven pillars of Islam, which distinguish their practices from the five commonly accepted Islamic pillars:
- Love for God, the Prophets, imams, and dais
- Purity (tahara)
- Prayer (salat)
- Charitable dues (zakat)
- Fasting (sawm)
- Pilgrimage to Mecca (hajj)
- Jihad
An additional key practice includes an annual renewal of the oath of allegiance to the shariah, the imam, and the dai during the feast of Gadir al-Khumm.
Religious Learning and Devotional Life
The Bohras have a strong tradition of religious education and value pilgrimages to saints’ shrines as critical components of their devotional practices.
Distinctive Dress
The men typically wear beards and gold-rimmed white caps, while the women wear a distinctive colorful, two-piece head-to-toe dress known as “Rida.”
Sunni Bohras
While the majority follow Shiite Islam, a small subset of Bohras adhere to Sunni traditions.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: البهرة (al-Buhra)
- Turkish: Bohralar
Further Studies and Suggested Readings
For more in-depth understanding, consider the following books:
- “The Origins and Early Development of Shia Islam” by S. H. M. Jafri
- “The Ismailis: Their History and Doctrines” by Farhad Daftary
- “Between Revolution and State: The Path to Fatimid Statehood” by Sumaiya A. Hamdani
Takeaways
The Bohras are a unique manifestation of Ismaili Shiism, known for their mercantile proficiency, distinctive religious practices, and strong cultural traditions. Their practices and beliefs, such as the recognition of seven pillars and the significant role of the dais, set them apart within the global Islamic landscape.
Conclusion
Understanding the Bohras provides valuable insights into the diverse expressions of Islam and highlights the intricate interplay between religion, culture, and history within this vibrant community.
