Meaning
A female child in relation to her parents; the word can also refer to a female descendant or a woman regarded as part of a family or community.
Biblical Usage
Scripture uses daughter primarily for a female child in relation to her father or mother. The term is also used for female descendants and for women identified through their family, people, city, or nation.
The Bible sometimes uses daughter in a broader relational or figurative sense, including expressions such as the daughter of Israel, daughter of Zion, or daughter of a particular people or city. The exact relationship is determined by the context.
Key References
- Genesis 5:4 — Adam’s descendants include sons and daughters.
- Genesis 24:23 — Rebekah is identified through her family.
- Exodus 2:8 — Moses’ sister speaks to Pharaoh’s daughter.
- Ruth 4:15 — Naomi is described in relation to Ruth and her family.
- 1 Samuel 1:22 — Hannah speaks of Samuel remaining before the LORD.
- 1 Samuel 25:42 — Abigail becomes David’s wife.
- 2 Samuel 13:1 — Tamar is identified as David’s daughter.
- Proverbs 31:28 — Children rise and call their mother blessed.
- Matthew 9:18 — Jairus refers to his daughter.
- Mark 5:34 — Jesus addresses the woman healed by faith as “Daughter.”
Related Terms
- Son
- Child
- Father
- Mother
- Family