Archeology has not provided enough evidence either way. Archaeologists have not done enough studies in Sri Lanka.
- The situation is similar to that of many other unresolved mysteries. Even though the mainstream position of archaeology is that humans evolved only recently, there is much evidence to the contrary. The Buddhist position is that evolution (specifically Darwin’s theory) is wrong. All types of births are dictated by Paticca Samuppada, not by evolution: “Buddhism and Evolution – Aggañña Sutta (DN 27).” Humans have existed forever, and they exist in other star systems too. This issue will be settled when they find evidence of life in other star systems and that lifeforms in them are similar to what we have on Earth. The closest star system is four light-years away (it will take four years to get there if a rocket travels at the speed of light.) Our rockets are like crawling ants! Just plug in the numbers and see.
- However, there is no such concrete position that can be uncovered in the Tipitaka regarding Buddha’s birthplace.
Both issues are not critical to following the path. They can only become distractions.
