The sources describing the temple are mainly Josephus Flavius and the Mishna (Middoth and Yoma). These sources lack a coherent description of the temple, and the information they provide differs on many points concerning the components of the temple and its measurements. Even Josephus' own descriptions differ between his Jewish Antiquities and The Jewish War! Unfortunately, archaeological excavation, which could have clarifies those issues, cannot be considered at this site as it was overbuilt by the Muslim Mosques.