John Climacus

John Climacus was a Christian monk and theologian from the 6th-7th century, best known for his spiritual writings. His most famous work, *The Ladder of Divine Ascent*, describes a step-by-step path to achieving spiritual growth and union with God, using the metaphor of climbing a ladder. He emphasized inner humility, prayer, and self-discipline as essential virtues for overcoming ego and temptation. His teachings have influenced Eastern Orthodox Christian thought on spiritual development, guiding believers to cultivate virtues gradually from initial repentance to complete love and surrender to God.