There were nine officers in the Seraglio known as the Arz Agalar. These men held a special privilege: they were allowed to present petitions directly to the Grand Signior, much like Masters of Requests in European courts. This duty placed them in a position of great trust, as they acted as a bridge between the Sultan and those seeking justice, favor, or promotion.
Because of this responsibility, the Arz Agalar were carefully chosen from among the most loyal and capable officers of the palace.
Members Chosen from the Haz Oda
Out of the nine Arz Agalar, four were selected from the Haz Oda, the highest chamber of the Seraglio. These officers already served close to the Sultan’s person. Their names and duties were well known within the court Private Istanbul Tour.
These included the Silahdar Aga, who carried the Sultan’s sword; the Chohadar Aga, responsible for the Sultan’s outer garment; the Rikabdar Aga, who held the Sultan’s stirrup when he mounted his horse; and the Tulbent Oğlanı, who assisted with the preparation and care of the Sultan’s turban.
Their daily proximity to the Sultan made them highly visible and placed them among the most likely candidates for future advancement.
Arz Agalar from Other Offices
The remaining Arz Agalar were chosen from other important palace offices. One of these was the Hazna Kethüdası, the second-ranking officer of the Treasury. Another was the Kiler Kethüdası, who supervised the supplies of sherbets, sugar, sweetmeats, and other provisions used in the palace.
Also included was the Doğancıbaşı, or chief falconer, who oversaw the Sultan’s hunting birds. The Hazodabaşı, the principal commander of the Royal Chamber, was another member. Finally, there was the Kapı Ağası, the chief commander of the pages, who was responsible for discipline and order among the young men of the court.
Path to High Office
All of these officers were considered the closest to promotion. When positions outside the palace became vacant, such as the office of Pasha or other high provincial posts, these men were usually chosen first. Their service in the Seraglio was seen as the best training for governing others.
Thus, the role of the Arz Agalar served not only as an honor but also as a final step before entering the highest ranks of the Ottoman administration.