Men are the protectors and maintainers of women....

[Abdul-Raouf]

In the name of Allah, the beneficent, the merciful*

Allah says:

*"Men are the protectors and maintainers of women because of what Allah has
preferred one with over the other and because of what they spend to support them
from their wealth." *

[Surah an-NisÄ': 34]

 

[Ansar Al-'Adl]

Nice article on the subject here:
http://www.islamtoday.net/english/showme.cfm?cat_id=37&sub_cat_id=664

See also the excellent quotes from the Prophet peace be upon him on the subject on my personal page: [listed under Ahâdîth -> women]
http://www.islamicboard.com/userpage-user49.html