Summary: The text discusses various propositions related to the history and origins of Buddhism, particularly focusing on the dating of the Buddhism of Gautama, or Sakya Buddha, and the sources of its influence. The text challenges conventional beliefs about the era of Buddhism's inception, suggesting that it originates from around the commencement of the Christian era instead of the sixth century B.C. It also questions the identification of Devanampiya Piyadasi with the historical Asoka and the authenticity of his edicts as representative of the Buddhism of Sakya. The discussion includes references to popular views of Buddhist antiquities and the scholarly interpretations of symbols and inscriptions found in Buddhist monuments. The text highlights the need for critical exploration of historical evidence and the importance of revisiting traditional narratives in understanding the true nature and origins of Buddhism as associated with the life of Sakya Buddha.