The "Ladder of Divine Ascent", also known as the "Ladder of Paradise", is a work by Saint John Climacus, one of the most beloved ascetic and spiritual books, not only among monks but also among Christians who consciously strive to combat passions and cultivate virtues.
The content of the work is addressed to souls dedicated to the Lord, who have renounced the worldly and seek perfection. It describes the various stages of their lives and, like a kind of "ladder", elevates them from the lowest to the highest. The 30 steps - as many as the Logoi - of the Ladder, starting from renouncing the vain world and withdrawal, culminate in the triad of the virtues of love, hope, and faith.
Although the Ladder is addressed to monks, it contains a wealth of teachings for Christians living in the world who are interested in the salvation of their souls. Concepts such as repentance, sorrow, obedience, remembrance of death, dispassion, malice, silence, prayer, fasting, faith, hope, love, etc. help in dealing with passions and acquiring virtue.