“To think otherwise is to demean the Buddha—which is to demean oneself.”

It was to demean oneself, according to their code, to do any menial work.

One may demean oneself with dignity and credit.

Because one has to demean oneself first.

V. be humble &c. adj.; deign, vouchsafe, condescend; humble oneself, demean oneself; stoop, stoop to conquer; carry coals; submit &c.