In whom there is truth, Dhamma, non-violence, restraint, and discipline — that wise one, free from impurity, is truly called an elder.

Yamhi saccañca dhammo ca ahiṃsā saṃyamo damo — in whom there is truth, Dhamma, non-violence, restraint, and discipline: five qualities defining the true thera: sacca (truth), dhamma (righteousness), ahiṃsā (non-violence), saṃyama (restraint), dama (discipline).

Sa ve vantamalo dhīro theroti pavuccati — that wise one, free from impurity, is called elder: vantamala is one who has vomited impurities — expelled them completely. This is the true elder, regardless of age.

The pair 260-261 establishes the correct definition of thera: not age but qualities. This redefinition is constant in the Dhammapada — taking social titles (brahmin, monk, elder) and redefining them in terms of actual practice.