Whether Buddhas and Bodhisattvas Exist in the Three Realms of the World

The Tathagatagarbha is formless and without characteristics; it cannot fill the empty space. Only phenomena with form and characteristics can be discussed in terms of filling or not filling space. The Tathagatagarbha only permeates the five aggregates and eighteen elements of sentient beings and Buddhas. The five aggregates and eighteen elements encompass all phenomena within the Three Realms, while beyond the Three Realms is the Tathagatagarbha. Thus, the Tathagatagarbha is all-encompassing and all-pervasive—wherever there is phenomena, there is Tathagatagarbha.

Then, do all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas exist within the Three Realms? The answer to this question becomes quite clear. Beyond the Three Realms, there are no five aggregates, no eighteen elements, and no phenomena whatsoever; only the Tathagatagarbha belongs to the realm beyond the Three Realms. All Buddhas and Bodhisattvas possess the five aggregates and eighteen elements, which they never extinguish. Only fixed-nature Arhats, upon the end of their lifespan, extinguish the five aggregates and eighteen elements, no longer within the Three Realms. Similarly, Pratyekabuddhas extinguish the five aggregates and eighteen elements upon entering complete nirvana without residue, no longer within the Three Realms. However, without the five aggregates and eighteen elements, there is no existence of Arhats or Pratyekabuddhas; only their Tathagatagarbha remains in tranquil existence.