Using scientific theory for explanation of phenomena in the context of non-scientific things as superior beings is useless.
Regarding the question of what was "before" the universe ; it is a nonsensical question.
"BEFORE" is a concept that requires the existence of time. It is widely acknowledged, that time as we know it, didnt "begin" until Big Bang ocurred - to talk about things happening "before" the Big Bang is hence, not applicable.
And IF a deity of some sort was involved in the creation process, it will of course be immune to a concept of time, because it will obviously be outside the domain where time is in effect - hence, as another debater put it - this hypothetical God would be immortal/eternal.
Regarding the question of what was "before" the universe ; it is a nonsensical question.
"BEFORE" is a concept that requires the existence of time. It is widely acknowledged, that time as we know it, didnt "begin" until Big Bang ocurred - to talk about things happening "before" the Big Bang is hence, not applicable.
And IF a deity of some sort was involved in the creation process, it will of course be immune to a concept of time, because it will obviously be outside the domain where time is in effect - hence, as another debater put it - this hypothetical God would be immortal/eternal.