The details of everyday life that appear in the Talmud are, however, presented indirectly or as they relate to the more crucial religious issue or theoretical matter under discussion. For example, the Talmud gives no guide to building a synagogue; indeed many of the most important details of extant synagogue remains are not mentioned in the Talmud or are alluded to only obliquely. Similarly the mishnaic tractate on ritual baths (Miqvaoth) is a very detailed document; yet it focuses on proper procedures for efficacious bathing, not on the construction of the bath installation itself. Thus, the Talmud provides chiefly indirect glimpses of everyday life, but even this often clarifies excavated remains of the Talmudic period.