John, whilst a [[hermit]] living at the Sinai Peninsula, was recognized for his humility, obedience, wisdom (which was attained through spiritual experience), and discernment. He already had a reputation for being extremely knowledgable knowledgeable about how to practice a holy life. St. John, [[igumen]] of the Raithu Monastery, one day asked St. John Climacus (also known as John of Sinai) to write down his wisdom in a book. At first hesistant hesitant to take on such a task, John of Sinai eventually honored the request, and he proceeded to write ''The Ladder.'' . St. John Climacus received his name "Climacus" ("of the Ladder")because of this work, and his writing ''The Ladder'' (later called ''The Ladder of Divine Ascent'') has been compared to the Holy [[Prophet]] and God-seer [[Moses]] receiving the Law.

This work was initially used by monastics. In fact it is read by monastics to this day during the [[Great Fast]]. It is also suggested as Lenten reading for those who are still "of this world";" yet this should be done with caution and under the guidance of a spiritual father. This work has made its mark on the lives of innumerable saints, including St. [[Theodore the Studite]], St. Sergius of Radonezh, St. Joseph of Volokolamsk, St. Peter of Damascus, and St. [[Theophan the Recluse]], amongst many others.