The general solution to Einstein's vacuum field equations for the point-mass in all its configurations must be determined in such a way as to provide a means by which an infinite sequence of particular solutions can be readily constructed. It is from such a solution that the underlying geometry of Einstein's universe can be rightly explored. I report here on the determination of the general solution and its consequences for the theoretical basis of relativistic degeneracy, i.e. gravitational collapse and the black hole.