Ladder of Divine Ascent (icon)

The Ladder of Divine Ascent is a late-12th-century Christian icon in the monastery of Saint Catherine, located at the foot of Mount Sinai in Egypt.

[1][2] The depiction of the ladder reflects the importance of angels and demons in Eastern Orthodox spirituality.

[2] The icon also shows a gaping maw, representing the Devil himself who is devouring a monk who has fallen from the ladder.

[5] The ladder shows some monks who have almost reached the summit as being tempted by demons and falling.

[6] The depiction of the monks falling off is a reflection of what John Climacus expressed as "what never ceased to amaze him" namely why some monks still gave in to worldly passions when God, the angels and the saints were encouraging them towards virtue.