This passage can be divided into three sections, all of which share the theme of seeking wisdom. The first section (18-23) shows that developing wisdom from a young age leads to a sensible old age. The second section (24-31) describes wisdom as something to which one willingly submits to become freer each day; it is a gentle yoke and a light burden, similar to how Jesus of Nazareth presents His way of life (cf. Mt 11:30). The third section (32-37) encourages us to seek that wisdom among our elders, for they have already traveled a path filled with experiences and challenges they have overcome. However, we do not learn everything from the elderly; according to Ben Sirach, the wisdom gained from a wise elder must be complemented by study and ongoing reflection on the Law of God.