Ladder of Divine Ascent

The Ladder of Divine Ascent, written by Saint John Climacus, is a spiritual guide that describes the journey of a person striving for spiritual growth and union with God. It presents 30 steps or rungs representing virtues like humility, patience, and prayer, along with their related vices. Climbing these rungs symbolizes overcoming sinful tendencies and developing virtues that lead to a deeper, more meaningful relationship with the divine. The ladder metaphor illustrates that spiritual progress is a gradual process requiring effort, self-awareness, and perseverance, ultimately guiding believers toward salvation and divine union.