noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
General term for an older, respected person in a community or group. Often used with honorifics like さん or 様.
村の長老たちが集まって話し合った。
The village elders gathered and discussed.
彼は業界
He is respected as an elder of the industry.
noun
senior monk
Specifically refers to a high-ranking, experienced monk in a Buddhist temple.
その寺の長老はとても穏やかな方だ。
The senior monk of that temple is a very gentle person.
noun
Used in Christian contexts for church officials (presbyter, dean) or patriarchs. Also used for a senior figure in some organizations.
彼は教会の長老として長年奉仕してきた。
He has served as a church elder for many years.