Our sages of old were right when they taught us that an elder who sits at home and allows children to eat python will not be left out when the roll call of python eaters is conducted. The elder is supposed to know better, command authority, exude wisdom and call the young ones to order when they go wayward. For this reason, the elder should not escape blame if he or she looks on or deliberately looks away while those under him or her are engaged in wrongdoing.