We Are Climbing Jacob's Ladder

“Jacob’s Ladder” is a well-known African American spiritual that draws its imagery from the biblical story of Jacob’s dream at Bethel, where he saw a ladder reaching from earth to heaven with angels ascending and descending. Its origins are anonymous, emerging in the oral tradition of enslaved African Americans in the 19th century. The spiritual reflects both deep biblical faith and the lived experience of longing for hope, deliverance, and connection with God.

The central image of the ladder represents the pathway between earth and heaven, symbolizing the believer’s journey of faith and spiritual ascent. Singing about “climbing Jacob’s ladder” communicates perseverance in the Christian life, trust in God’s guidance, and the promise of eventual fellowship with Him. This imagery is reinforced in the New Testament, where Jesus references the ladder to convey access to God and the mediation of angels (John 1:51).

A key theme of the spiritual is progress through struggle. The repetitive, call-and-response style characteristic of African American spirituals mirrors the persistence required in both spiritual growth and in enduring earthly trials. The song affirms that although the path may be steep and challenging, each step upward brings the believer closer to God. This message resonated deeply with enslaved communities, providing encouragement, solidarity, and hope for divine justice and freedom.

“Jacob’s Ladder” also emphasizes communal participation. Spirituals of this kind were often sung in groups, allowing individuals to express personal devotion while fostering shared identity and resilience. Its enduring popularity in gospel, folk, and modern worship settings demonstrates its universal appeal as a hymn of perseverance, faith, and hope.

The hymn remains a timeless reminder that the journey of faith involves both challenge and divine guidance, and that God’s presence and promise sustain believers as they “climb” toward eternal life.