Contemporary society advocates women’s equality. However, “equal” is often misinterpreted to mean “identical”. Judaism teaches that man and woman were purposely created with different qualities so they can complement each other. 

Contemporary society advocates equality for women. Modern society’s call for uniformity is similar to a chair’s aspiring to be identical to a table. If it succeeds, we will have two tables, but what good are they without chairs? On the other hand, a table-chair combination serves a positive function. Similarly, in order to completely express oneself and achieve his purpose in life, A Jew must have a spouse - someone equal but endowed with traits will complement his or her own and foster growth.

Those who achieve this union achieve completeness. The Sages tell us:

“A man [Adam] who does not have a wife is not considered a human being, for it is said, ‘Male and female He created them, and called their name Adam’”

(Yevamot 63a, citing Genesis 5:2).

This mutual completion cannot be achieved without effort. Both husband and wife must contribute the best of their unique qualities and understanding to the oneness with his or her spouse, rather than seeking to duplicate one another. 

However, “equal” is often misinterpreted to mean “identical.” Judaism teaches us that man and woman were purposely created with different qualities to enable them to complement each other. Thus they are equipped to pool their joint resources of character and create a well-rounded complete family unit.