A tragic paradox often defines the historical relationship between God and the Israelites. The very source of their strength and salvation ultimately became the focal point of their downfall. The primary approach among commentators is that the people brought disaster upon themselves with their own hands. They chose to sin and rebel specifically against God, the one being who had always been their ultimate help and support [רש״י, ביאור שטיינזלץ].
Rather than relying on God's guidance, the nation simply turned its back on Him [מצודת דוד, צאינה וראינה]. Historically, this rebellion took shape through specific events, such as the making of the Golden Calf [רד״ק] or the rejection of God's direct rule by demanding a human king [אברבנאל]. However, this downfall was not necessarily an active punishment from God. Because God is the sole source of true assistance, when the people corrupt their ways, He simply hides His face and withdraws His support. Without this Divine protection, destruction occurs naturally on its own [מלבי״ם]. This creates a bitter irony. The Torah once promised that God would be their protecting shield, yet now, the absence of that very help is the direct cause of their ruin [מלבי״ם].
From a psychological standpoint, the absolute certainty of God's help is precisely what caused the disaster. The Israelites assumed that because God had rescued them from Egypt, He would always forgive their wrongdoings and save them no matter what. This extreme overconfidence bred a dangerous complacency, ultimately leading to their moral decay [אברבנאל בשם רבנו נסים].
On a deeper level, the actions of the Israelites carry a unique weight. Unlike the actions of other nations, their sins cause damage in the higher spiritual realms, making their failures much more severe. Yet, the moment they awaken, choose to repent, and reconnect to their spiritual roots, God immediately steps in to help them [חומת אנך]. Another profound perspective reverses this dynamic entirely. When the Israelites follow the Torah and its commandments, they effectively add strength and provide help to God. In this profound sense, God's strength in the world is directly tied to the actions and assistance of the people [חומת אנך].