An FP reader referred me to a Scripture passage that gives precedent for Israel to resume sacrifices without a full temple in place. In Ezra 3, we learn that about three months after the exiled Israelites returned to their land, the priests built an altar in Jerusalem and began offering burnt offerings -- before the foundations of the new temple were laid. From the time the foundations were laid in the spring of 536 B.C. to the time the temple was completed in the spring of 516 B.C. (see Ezra 6), 20 years had passed -- all the while sacrifices were being offered.

More food for thought.