The Ladder of Divine Ascent: New Scientific Evidence for an Old Theological Perspective on Crying

Crying has been largely overlooked in psychological and psychiatric literature until recently. This review synthesizes new scientific evidence on the phenomenon, integrating psychological, psychiatric, neurophysiological, and biochemical perspectives. Humans produce basal and reflex tears, but they also cry voluntarily, emotionally, tearfully, and spiritually. Emotional crying, in particular, induces significant physiological, psychological, and socio-behavioral changes. It has been shown to facilitate stress relief by eliminating hormones and toxins, stimulate endorphin production, and reduce pain and distress, ultimately contributing to emotional well-being. These findings align with theological perspectives from over a millennium ago, particularly in the writings of John Climacus, highlighting the enduring significance of crying across scientific and spiritual domains.