The answer is: Without form and empty

Gen 1:2

In the beginning, as described in Genesis 1:2, the earth was in a profoundly formless and empty state. Imagine a vast, dark canvas just waiting to be transformed into a masterpiece. This concept of "tohu va-bohu," the Hebrew phrase for "without form and empty," suggests that the earth was in chaos, an unrefined blank slate. This image is powerful, evoking the brink of creation – a time when anything and everything was possible.

It’s fascinating to think of how this emptiness set the stage for the rest of creation. The spirit of God, hovering over that deep darkness, signifies a sense of potential. This beckons us to consider how moments of chaos in our own lives may lay the groundwork for transformation. Across cultures, themes of creation out of chaos echo—many myths depict primordial waters from which life emerges, reflecting a universal quest for order from disorder.

Moreover, throughout the Bible, darkness often symbolizes confusion or alienation, while light brings understanding and clarity. God speaks light into existence, keying us in on His intent not just to create, but to bring order and life. Also noteworthy is the parallel found in John 1:5, where light symbolizes divine truth that overcomes darkness. Thus, the narrative of God transforming emptiness into a vibrant world resonates deeply, inviting enduring hope and meaning into even the most chaotic chapters of our lives.