Final answer:
Herodotus called Egypt "the gift of the Nile" because the Nile provided fertile soil for agriculture, predictable flooding that influenced Egyptian culture and religion, and water for sustaining life and crops.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Greek historian Herodotus referred to Egypt as "the gift of the Nile" because the Nile River was instrumental to Egypt's agriculture, economy, and culture. It provided nutrient-rich soil essential for farming due to its predictable flooding, which deposited silt along its banks. This flooding not only made the soil fertile but also supported the irrigation systems necessary for agricultural surplus, leading to increased trade and economic stability.
The Nile's predictable flooding patterns also contributed to a sense of harmony and order in Egyptian society, influencing religious concepts like Ma'at, which embodied balance and justice. Lastly, the water from the Nile was essential for both daily life and sustaining crops, making it the lifeblood of ancient Egyptian civilization.