The term "Daughter of Egypt" is a metaphorical expression found in the Bible, primarily in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament. It is used to personify the nation of Egypt, often in contexts of judgment and impending doom. This expression reflects the ancient Near Eastern literary style of personifying cities or nations as women, a common motif in biblical prophecy.

Biblical References:

1. Jeremiah 46:11 · "Go up to Gilead and get balm, O Virgin Daughter of Egypt! But you multiply remedies in vain; there is no healing for you."
In this passage, the "Daughter of Egypt" is depicted as seeking healing and remedies, yet finding none. The prophet Jeremiah uses this imagery to convey the futility of Egypt's efforts to escape the judgment decreed by God. The reference to Gilead, known for its balm, underscores the desperation and the ultimate ineffectiveness of Egypt's attempts to avert disaster.

2. Jeremiah 46:19 · "Pack your bags for exile, O Daughter dwelling in Egypt! For Memphis will be laid waste, destroyed and uninhabited."
Here, the "Daughter of Egypt" is warned to prepare for exile, as the city of Memphis, a significant cultural and religious center in ancient Egypt, is prophesied to face destruction. This imagery serves as a vivid portrayal of the impending judgment and the inevitable downfall of Egypt due to its opposition to God's will.

3. Isaiah 47:1 · Although this verse specifically addresses Babylon, the literary style is similar to that used for Egypt, where nations are personified as daughters. This style is consistent across prophetic texts, emphasizing the vulnerability and impending judgment of these powerful nations.

Theological Significance:

The use of "Daughter of Egypt" in the biblical text serves several theological purposes. It highlights the sovereignty of God over all nations, including those as powerful and historically significant as Egypt. The metaphor underscores the theme of divine judgment against nations that oppose God's people and His purposes. Egypt, often seen as a symbol of worldly power and idolatry, is depicted as vulnerable and subject to God's ultimate authority.

Furthermore, the imagery of a "daughter" suggests a sense of intimacy and familiarity, which makes the pronouncement of judgment more poignant. It reflects the idea that no nation, regardless of its might or historical significance, is beyond the reach of God's justice.

Historical Context:

Egypt was a dominant power in the ancient Near East, known for its wealth, military prowess, and cultural achievements. Throughout biblical history, Egypt often played a significant role, both as an oppressor of Israel (as in the Exodus narrative) and as a place of refuge (as in the account of Joseph and later, the Holy Family's flight to Egypt). The prophets' use of "Daughter of Egypt" reflects the complex relationship between Israel and Egypt, marked by both conflict and interaction.

In summary, the "Daughter of Egypt" serves as a powerful symbol in biblical prophecy, representing the nation of Egypt in its vulnerability to divine judgment. Through this metaphor, the biblical text communicates themes of God's sovereignty, the futility of opposing His will, and the ultimate accountability of all nations before Him.