The angel urges the travelers to cross through the river of fire because there is no other way up the mountain to the Earthly Paradise. Terrified that he will be burned alive, Dante at first refuses to enter the flames. Virgil, however, encourages Dante by reminding him that Beatrice waits for him above. At the mention of Beatrice, Dante enters the river and writhes in pain from the incredible heat.
Angelic voices urge the poets out of the flames.
Darkness falls as the poets, safe from the fire, lie down on the steps to rest until daybreak. In his dream, Dante sees Leah who, picking flowers, tells Dante that she prefers to spend her time weaving her flowers into garlands while her sister, Rachel, prefers to look at her own beautiful eyes in a mirror. After Dante awakens, the three poets resume their climb. Although Dante will soon attain true happiness, Virgil explains that he has brought Dante as far as he can as his teacher. Sweet odors, soft breezes, and chirping birds fill the air as Dante approaches a lovely stream followed by the spirits of the ancient poets.