What does let not a man guard his dignity but let his dignity guard him mean?

The phrase "let not a man guard his dignity but let his dignity guard him" suggests that true dignity comes from within and should be a guiding force in one's actions and decisions, rather than something to be fiercely protected or displayed outwardly. It implies that when a person embodies dignity, it naturally influences how they are treated and perceived by others. Essentially, living with integrity and self-respect allows dignity to be a protective shield, rather than a fragile facade to defend.