Elder (administrative title)
POSITION OR TITLE CONFERRED AS AUTHORITY BASED ON BEING OLDER OR WISER
Political elder; Elder (title); Town fathers; Elder (society); Village elder; Tribal elder; Tribal leader
The term Elder, or its equivalent in another language, is used in several countries and organizations to indicate a position of authority. This usage is usually derived from the notion that the oldest members of any given group are the wisest, and are thus the most qualified to rule, provide counsel or serve the said group in some other capacity.