Is a wife her husband's property, or his partner in life?

The wife is a partner to the husband in the responsibility of the home and raising children, not his property. Each of them has rights and duties. Guardianship (Qawamah) means looking after worldly and religious interests. Men are obliged to safeguard God's rights concerning women and to restrain them from corrupting influences. They are also responsible for providing for them financially, and supplying them with clothing and shelter.