IKKI VISVAY
Literally: twenty-one parts.
The term Ikki Visvay has been derived from land measuring system: one vigha (bigha), a measurement of land, comprises of 20 visvas; hence 20 visvas are one complete (vigha). In this sense, Ikki Visvay means something which is more than one whole. Some writers have used this term to denote that Guru called himself Veeh Visvay and the Sarbat Khalsa as Ikki Visvay (i.e. more than Guru Sahib). This is simply wrong. The Sikhs, even if they are one whole nation, can never be more than Guru Sahib in any situation and in any circumstances.
Also see: Ikkis.
(Dr Harjinder Singh Dilgeer)