The term "Daughters of Egypt" is a biblical phrase that appears in the prophetic literature of the Old Testament, often symbolizing the nation of Egypt and its people. This expression is used metaphorically to represent the inhabitants of Egypt, particularly in contexts of judgment and prophecy.

Biblical References:

1. Jeremiah 46:24 : "The daughter of Egypt will be put to shame; she will be delivered into the hands of the people of the north." In this passage, the prophet Jeremiah speaks of the impending judgment upon Egypt. The "daughter of Egypt" is personified as a woman who will experience shame and defeat, symbolizing the nation's downfall at the hands of foreign invaders, likely the Babylonians.

2. Ezekiel 30:18 : "The young men of On and Pi-beseth will fall by the sword, and those cities will go into captivity." While the phrase "daughters of Egypt" is not directly used here, the context of Ezekiel 30 is a lamentation over Egypt, where the imagery of cities and their inhabitants, including women, is used to depict the nation's destruction and captivity.

3. Isaiah 19:16 : "In that day the Egyptians will be like women. They will tremble with fear beneath the uplifted hand of the LORD of Hosts, when He brandishes it against them." Although not explicitly mentioning "daughters," this verse uses feminine imagery to describe the fear and vulnerability of the Egyptians in the face of divine judgment.

Symbolism and Interpretation:

In the prophetic books, the "daughters of Egypt" often symbolize the vulnerability and impending judgment of the nation. The use of feminine imagery is a common biblical motif to express the idea of a city or nation as a woman, often highlighting aspects of protection, vulnerability, and shame in the face of conquest or divine retribution.

From a theological perspective, these passages underscore the sovereignty of God over the nations. Egypt, a powerful and influential nation in the ancient Near East, is depicted as subject to God's will and judgment. The imagery of the "daughters of Egypt" serves to remind the reader of the ultimate authority of God over all earthly powers and the futility of relying on human strength and alliances.

Historical Context:

Egypt was a significant political and military power during the times of the prophets. It often played a role in the geopolitical dynamics of the region, including interactions with Israel and Judah. The prophetic pronouncements against Egypt, including references to its "daughters," reflect historical events where Egypt faced invasions and defeats, such as those by the Assyrians and Babylonians.

Theological Themes:

1. Judgment and Sovereignty: The recurring theme of judgment against Egypt highlights God's sovereignty over nations. The "daughters of Egypt" serve as a metaphor for the nation's subjugation to divine authority.

2. Reliance on God: The prophetic warnings to Israel and Judah often included admonitions against relying on Egypt for military or political support. The fate of the "daughters of Egypt" serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of placing trust in human powers rather than in God.

3. Redemption and Restoration: While the focus on the "daughters of Egypt" is primarily on judgment, the broader biblical narrative includes themes of redemption and restoration, where God's ultimate purpose is to bring about repentance and renewal for all nations.

In summary, the "daughters of Egypt" in the Bible represent a powerful symbol of a nation under divine judgment, serving as a reminder of God's control over history and the importance of faithfulness to Him.