The icon represents the theological teachings of
John Climacus, also known as
John of the Ladder, as represented in the ascetical treatise
The Ladder of Divine Ascent, written c. AD 600. The treatise has been influential in
Eastern Christianity. The icon depicts monks ascending the ladder towards
Jesus in
Heaven, at the top right of the image with John Climacus at the top of the ladder, being welcomed by Jesus. The ladder has 30
rungs representing the 30 stages of
ascetic life. The icon also shows a gaping maw, representing the
Devil himself who is devouring a monk who has fallen from the ladder. The ladder shows some monks who have almost reached the summit as being tempted by demons and falling. 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. ==See also==