The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus (The Paradise Ladder) Wooden orthodox icon

The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus (The Paradise Ladder)

This theological and symbolic icon, titled “The Ladder of Divine Ascent,” is inspired by the teachings of St. John Climacus. It portrays a golden staircase leading to Jesus Christ in paradise. Along this ladder, individuals ascend, striving for spiritual perfection while contending with demons who attempt to pull them down.

The icon serves as an allegory for the struggle of the human will against passions on the path to virtue. Each step on the ladder represents stages of spiritual growth and self-improvement, as outlined in St. John’s book The Ladder of Divine Ascent. These include overcoming vanity, conquering vices, and persevering through ascetic challenges.

The highest steps signify the ultimate virtues necessary for salvation: faith, hope, and love. Without these, entrance into the Kingdom of God is unattainable. The thirty steps of the ladder correspond to the thirty years of preparation in Jesus Christ’s life before beginning His ministry.

The icon powerfully illustrates the trials believers face at every stage. Some falter at the beginning, others are led astray midway, and even those nearing the top may succumb. Angels are depicted aside in prayer, symbolizing their non-intervention in human struggles.

At the summit, St. John Climacus himself offers a scroll of his teachings to Jesus Christ, signifying his triumph over the spiritual journey. This profound icon emphasizes that the battle against passions and temptations lies in human will and determination.

🖼 Product Features

Each icon in our workshop is made to last a lifetime and beyond. The image is printed with rich, fade-resistant pigment inks on a premium solid-core wood panel — then hand-finished with a natural beeswax coating that deepens the colors, protects the surface, and gives each piece the warm, reverent quality of a traditionally crafted sacred object. A metal hanging hook is included on the back, so your icon is ready to display the moment it arrives.

• Crafted on a premium wood panel — 1.6 cm (0.6") thick, sturdy yet lightweight
• Fade-resistant pigment print — rich, true-to-life colors that last for generations
• Natural beeswax finish — hand-applied for depth, protection, and a traditional feel
• Ready to hang — metal hook pre-attached on the reverse
• Hand-finished by Orthodox Christian artisans in Portugal

📏 Available Sizes

• Small – 12 x 15 cm (5” x 6”)
• Medium – 23 x 30 cm (9” x 12”)
• Large – 30 x 39 cm (12” x 15”)

🎁 Perfect For

• Meaningful Orthodox Christian gifts
• Housewarming and family blessings
• Prayer corners and devotional spaces
• Baptisms, name days, weddings, and feast days

🌍 Worldwide Delivery

Securely packed and shipped worldwide from Portugal with tracking.

✨ Crafted with Tradition

Each icon is carefully made by Orthodox Christian artisans in Portugal — created to become a lasting blessing for your home or a treasured gift for someone you love.