Four modes are the 1) literal (tshig), 2) general (spyi), 3) hidden (sbas), and the 4) ultimate (mthar thug)
four modes. Four levels of meaning: the literal, the general, the hidden, and the ultimate
four modes; the four methods, modes / aspects [of meaning], {don gyi tshul bzhi}, {tshig gi tshul} the literal aspect, in words. {phyi'i tshul} the general aspect or outer method. {sbas pa'i tshul} the hidden aspect or way. {mthar thug gi tshul} the ultimate aspect or method]. [TRS 132-1] 3 types + expl