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The Ladder of Divine Ascent, also known as The Ladder of Paradise, is a 12th-century icon from the most important and most famous place where icons were created: the Monastery of St Catherine on Mount Sinai.
The icon represents the theological teachings of St. John Climacus, also known as John of the Ladder, who described the Christian life as a ladder with 30 rungs. Climacus's ascetical treatise obtained an immense popularity and has made its author famous in the Church. It is addressed to anchorites and cenobites and describes the means by which the highest degree of religious perfection may be attained. Divided into 30 parts (steps), in memory of the 30 years of the life of Christ, it presents a picture of all the virtues and contains a great many parables and historical touches, drawn principally from the monastic life, and exhibiting the practical application of the precepts.
On the icon we see monks tempted by demons and encouraged by angels, while at the top of the ladder, John Climacus is welcomed by Jesus. The demons attack and try to make monks fall from the ladder by pulling them down or striking them with arrows. Some monks have almost reached the summit are being tempted by demons and falling. The icon also shows a gaping maw, representing the Devil himself who is devouring a monk who has fallen from the ladder.
Have a great Monday everyone; be careful to not fall from the ladder! Meanwhile we would like to ask for your help. We need $100,000 to create a new and improved DailyArt app. <3
P.S. You may want to learn more about the essential who, what and where of icons. <3