The second, he said, is the very first act of disobedience into which an otherwise obedient servant slips.

In common parlance, “those of dignity” are people distinguished by laudable qualities, a sense of honor, and noble character.

As for the phrase “except for the ḥadd-penalties,” its intent is that such penalties are not to be waived; once the matter reaches the ruler they must be enforced upon the dignified and the ordinary person alike.