Philo, a Jewish philosopher living in Alexandria around the time of Jesus, grappled with this idea. He saw that virtue, that inner goodness, could actually make someone "older" in a spiritual sense, regardless of their physical age.
And in his writings, which some scholars refer to as The Midrash of Philo (though it's worth noting the exact nature and title of this work are debated), he illustrates this point through the contrasting choices of two sons.
One son, the "virtuous" one, chooses a life of tending to living creatures, becoming a shepherd. Now, you might think, "Shepherd? That's not exactly glamorous!" But Philo sees it differently. He elevates this role, calling it a "princely office," almost a training ground for royalty. It's about nurturing, caring for something other than yourself. It's about responsibility and compassion. It's seen as a "rehearsal of royal power" because a true leader cares for their flock.
The other son? He’s drawn to "earthly and inanimate objects." We aren't given specifics, but the implication is clear: his focus is on the material, the lifeless. He’s not engaging with the world in a way that fosters growth or connection.
So, what's Philo getting at? It’s not about age, or even occupation, really. It's about the direction of our hearts. Are we drawn to things that cultivate life and connection, or are we consumed by the lifeless and material? Are we actively engaging in Zohar" target="_blank" rel="noopener" class="source-link">tikkun olam (repairing the world), even in small ways?
This idea of inner virtue trumping outward status is a powerful one. It reminds us that true worth isn't measured by age, wealth, or even worldly success, but by the quality of our actions and the intentions of our hearts. It's a challenge to us all: to choose a life of meaning, a life of service, a life that nourishes the world around us. Even if it means becoming a shepherd.