Hemp Knots

Hemp Knots

　　Hemp Knots: The term "knot" (橛) refers to a small segment, as locals in Dongguan would say. These are made by mixing fried glutinous rice flour with crushed fried peanuts and adding sesame seeds. Each hemp knot is similarly sized, about two to three centimeters long, diamond-shaped, and colored like hemp. When holding a handful of hemp knots, they often overlap and connect to form a square victory (方胜, a traditional symmetrical pattern symbolizing order and harmony) design. They carry the meaning of uprightness, purity, unity of hearts, and shared good fortune. Dongguan people give hemp knots to one another as gifts, wishing each other peace and happiness.