Prohibition on Building a Synagogue as a Model of the Temple

As it is taught [in a baraita]: A person [may] not construct a house [in the exact] form of the Sanctuary, [nor] a portico in [the exact] form of the Entrance Hall [of the Sanctuary, nor] a courtyard corresponding to [the Temple] courtyard, [nor] a table corresponding to the table [in the Temple, nor] a candelabrum corresponding to the candelabrum [in the Temple]. However, one may fashion [a candelabrum] of five or of six or of eight [lamps]. But one may not fashion [a candelabrum with] seven [lamps] even [if he constructs it] from other kinds of metal [rather than gold, as in exigent circumstances the candelabrum in the Temple may be fashioned from other metals]. R. Yosi bar Judah says: Also, one may not fashion [a candelabrum] of wood, in the manner that the kings of the Hasmonean monarchy fashioned [it. When they first purified the Temple, they had to prepare the candelabrum out of wood, as no other material was available. Since this candelabrum is fit for the Temple, it is prohibited to fashion one of this kind for oneself.]