In Genesis 1:2, Moses describes the initial conditions of the newly formed earth created in verse 1. This provides background information that will help his audience understand God's creative activities over the next six days. We consider the meaning and significance of several phrases and themes that have sometimes been misunderstood, including "without form and void", "darknss", and "the Spirit of God" (Gen 1:2 ESV). Lord willing, this study should help us grasp God's creative activities and understand that he alone is the sovereign Creator, Ruler, and King.