The word “rebellious” describes people who have broken God’s covenant. Rebellion against God often manifests itself in social disorder and political instability. This was certainly the case with the ten northern tribes of Israel, ever since they had separated from the kingdom of Judah. Their continued rebellion against God was coupled with endless political rebellion and bloodshed. No fewer than nine dynasties succeeded each other in a period of 200 years. The prophet Hosea proclaimed that this chaos was due to Israel’s not calling on God (Hosea 7:7; cf. Hosea 8:4and Hosea 13:11).
See also Proverbs 11:11 and Proverbs 29:18.
2 When a land transgresses, it has many rulers, but with a man of understanding and knowledge, its stability will long continue.