The "Ladder of Divine Ascent" is a spiritual text written by Saint John Climacus in the 7th century. It outlines a path of spiritual growth and asceticism, depicting the journey of the soul towards God. The work is structured as a series of thirty steps, each representing a virtue or struggle that one must overcome to achieve spiritual enlightenment. This text is highly regarded in Eastern Orthodox Christianity and is often read during the season of Great Lent. It serves as a guide for monks and laypeople alike, emphasizing the importance of prayer, humility, and self-discipline in the pursuit of a closer relationship with God.