2 Chronicles 10 recounts the events following the death of King Solomon. Rehoboam, his son, goes to Shechem where the people of Israel assemble to make him their king. Jeroboam, a prominent figure among the people, pleads with Rehoboam for relief from the heavy burdens placed upon them during Solomon's reign. Rehoboam consults with the older advisors who advise him to be a servant to the people, leading with kindness and easing their burdens. However, he disregards their counsel and seeks advice from his young friends instead.
Following his friends' advice, Rehoboam responds harshly to the people, declaring that his rule will be even more burdensome than Solomon's. This angers the Israelites, leading to a rebellion against Rehoboam's rule. The ten tribes of Israel reject Rehoboam as their king and choose Jeroboam as their leader instead, effectively dividing the kingdom.
This chapter highlights the importance of wise counsel and the consequences of poor decision-making. Rehoboam's pride and refusal to listen to the wisdom of the older advisors lead to the division of the kingdom and the subsequent establishment of the northern kingdom of Israel under Jeroboam's rule.