Kim Farnell

Walter Gorn Old, who wrote under the pseudonym "Sepharial," was born in England in 1864 and passed away in 1929. He was a prominent figure in late 19th and early 20th-century occultism, particularly in astrology and numerology. Adopting the name "Sepharial" from an angelic figure in the Book of Enoch, he was also an English Theosophist and a founding member of the Theosophical Society in England. His early studies encompassed medicine, psychology, oriental languages, astrology, and numerology. He contributed an astrology problem page to the Society Times and was recognized by Madame Blavatsky, with whom he lived until her death, as "The Astral Tramp."

Sepharial's influence extended to other occultists like Alfred H. Barley and Alan Leo, whom he introduced to Theosophy. He is noted for being the first astrologer to incorporate the hypothetical natural satellite of Earth, which he termed "dark moon" Lilith, into his calculations. Despite his significant contributions, the less organized compilation of some of his works may have limited the lasting impact of his reputation. He also edited Old Moore's Almanac, a publication that continues to this day, and launched several astrological magazines that ultimately did not succeed.

Born Walter Gorn Old in Handsworth, England, in 1864, Sepharial's intellectual journey began with studies in medicine, followed by pursuits in psychology, oriental languages, astrology, and numerology. His engagement with the esoteric deepened in 1886 when he initiated an astrology advice column in the Society Times, addressing public inquiries. A year later, he was welcomed into the inner circle of the Theosophical Society, becoming a foundational member of its English branch. His association with Madame Blavatsky was significant; he resided with her until her passing and was famously nicknamed "The Astral Tramp" by her.

Sepharial made notable contributions to the field of astrology, including the introduction of the concept of "dark moon" Lilith. He theorized a hypothetical natural satellite of Earth, so dark as to be largely invisible, and integrated it into his astrological calculations. This innovation marked him as the first astrologer to do so. His writings and teachings profoundly influenced contemporaries such as Alfred H. Barley and Alan Leo, whom he also introduced to the principles of Theosophy. While his legacy is substantial, the somewhat haphazard organization of some of his published works has been suggested as a factor that may have diminished the enduring strength of his reputation in the long term.

Beyond his original writings, Sepharial served as the editor of Old Moore's Almanac, a publication that has maintained its presence into the 21st century. He also ventured into launching several astrological magazines, though none managed to establish themselves permanently. His literary output was extensive, covering diverse subjects within the occult and esoteric traditions. Many of his books, though now rare and out of print, remain valuable resources for those interested in subjects like astrology, numerology, and clairvoyance.