In Genesis 2:18 God says, "It is not good for man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him." That word "helper" is one of the most misunderstood words in Scripture. It certainly doesn't mean "inferior" since it is the same word used to describe God's relationship to man in the Old Testament. It is actually a beautiful word picture of the marriage relationship. Husband and wife are like two pieces of a jigsaw puzzle that complement each other by fitting perfectly together.
Robert Alter says that the word "helper" or "help meet" is notoriously difficult to interpret. He argues that it is more powerful than "helper." A better interpretation would be "lifesaver." I like that interpretation. And it fits my experience. My wife is a lifesaver!