What did Galileo believe to be the language of the universe?

Galileo believed that mathematics was the language of the universe because he viewed it as a universal framework through which the natural world could be understood and described. He argued that physical phenomena could be represented and predicted through mathematical equations and principles. This perspective emerged during the Scientific Revolution, where empirical observation and mathematical reasoning became foundational to scientific inquiry. By employing mathematics, Galileo was able to articulate the laws of motion and other basic principles that govern the physical world, showing that the universe operates according to quantifiable relationships rather than solely through verbal or philosophical narratives. Thus, his assertion emphasizes the importance of mathematics in formulating scientific theories and explaining natural phenomena, solidifying its role as a crucial tool in understanding the workings of the universe.