If we define space as the absence of matter or its constituents, it is inextricably linked to the existence of matter. Without matter there is no space because space is defined in opposition to the presence of matter. Space is simply a void which has the potential to be filled with matter or energy. That potential is what defines it as space. In other words, if nothing is the absence of something, something must exist for nothing to exist relative to it.
Space and time are also inextricably linked. Movement through space affects movement through time and vice versa. This is one of the fundamental principles of general relativity. Without matter, there is no space. Without space there is no space-time continuum. Because matter and time are absolutely interwoven, without matter time does not exist.
Taking this strain of thought to its ultimate conclusion (or ultimate beginning), the beginning of the universe represents an instantaneous appearance of matter, energy, and space. Without matter and energy, there was neither any time or any space in which the matter could possibly exist. Therefore, either the cause of the universe exists both an extra-temporal and extra-spatial state, or the sudden appearance of matter has absolutely no cause at all. Which do you think makes more sense?
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