Pelatiah, the son of Benaiah, is a biblical figure mentioned in the book of Ezekiel. His name, Pelatiah, means "Yahweh delivers" or "Yahweh rescues," which is significant given the context in which he appears in the Scriptures.

Biblical References:

Pelatiah is primarily mentioned in the book of Ezekiel, specifically in Ezekiel 11:1-13. This passage provides insight into his role and the circumstances surrounding his mention.

Context in Ezekiel:

In Ezekiel 11, the prophet Ezekiel is transported in a vision to the east gate of the house of the LORD, where he sees twenty-five men, including Jaazaniah son of Azzur and Pelatiah son of Benaiah. These men are described as leaders of the people, and they are accused of giving wicked counsel in the city. The text suggests that they are responsible for misleading the people of Jerusalem, promoting false security, and encouraging rebellion against the Babylonian authorities.

Ezekiel 11:1-2 states: "Then the Spirit lifted me up and brought me to the gate of the house of the LORD that faces east, and there at the entrance of the gate I saw twenty-five men. Among them I saw Jaazaniah son of Azzur and Pelatiah son of Benaiah, leaders of the people. And the LORD said to me, 'Son of man, these are the men who are plotting evil and giving wicked counsel in this city.'"

Prophetic Judgment:

The LORD, through Ezekiel, pronounces judgment upon these leaders for their actions. The prophecy indicates that their counsel will lead to destruction and that they will not escape the consequences of their deeds. The vision serves as a warning to the people of Jerusalem about the impending judgment due to their leaders' unfaithfulness and rebellion.

Ezekiel 11:13 records a significant moment: "Now as I was prophesying, Pelatiah son of Benaiah died. Then I fell facedown and cried out with a loud voice, 'Alas, Lord GOD! Will You bring the remnant of Israel to a complete end?'"

Significance of Pelatiah's Death:

The sudden death of Pelatiah during Ezekiel's prophecy is a dramatic and symbolic act. It underscores the seriousness of God's judgment and serves as a tangible sign of the divine displeasure with the leaders' actions. Ezekiel's reaction—falling facedown and crying out to God—reflects the gravity of the situation and his concern for the fate of the remnant of Israel.

Theological Implications:

Pelatiah's account highlights themes of leadership, responsibility, and divine judgment. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faithful and righteous leadership, as well as the consequences of leading others astray. The narrative also emphasizes God's sovereignty and justice, as He holds leaders accountable for their actions and the impact they have on His people.

In summary, Pelatiah son of Benaiah is a figure whose actions and subsequent death in the prophetic vision of Ezekiel serve as a powerful message about the consequences of wicked leadership and the certainty of divine judgment.