It is an injunction that arises by operation of law immediately upon the commencement of bankruptcy case. The stay goes into effect even against creditors who do not receive notice about the bankruptcy later. It strictly prohibits the commencement or continuation of any acts to collect on a debt that arose prior to filing the bankruptcy, including but not limited to enforcement of judgments, creating or perfecting liens, and many other actions. It does not apply to collecting alimony maintenance and support, student loans, and certain tax obligations.