Sepharial

Walter Gorn Old, who wrote under the pen name Sepharial, was an English astrologer and Theosophist active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in 1864 and passing away in 1929, he adopted the pseudonym Sepharial, inspired by an angelic figure from the apocryphal Book of Enoch. Sepharial was a foundational figure in the Theosophical movement in England, even living with Madame Blavatsky until her death. His early studies encompassed medicine, psychology, oriental languages, astrology, and numerology. He began his public career in astrology by answering questions for the Society Times in 1886. He also served as the editor for Old Moore's Almanac, a publication that continues into the 21st century. Sepharial's writings significantly influenced contemporaries in the occult and astrological fields, including Alfred H. Barley and Alan Leo. He is also recognized for being the first astrologer to incorporate the hypothetical celestial body Lilith, which he termed the "dark moon," into his astrological calculations. Despite his influence, the disorganized compilation of some of his works may have limited the lasting impact of his reputation.

Walter Gorn Old, later known as Sepharial, was born in England in 1864. His intellectual journey began with studies in medicine, followed by explorations into psychology, oriental languages, astrology, and numerology. In 1886, he started engaging with the public through an astrology problem page in the Society Times. A year later, he was initiated into the "inner sanctum" of the Theosophical Society, becoming one of its founding members in England. He maintained a close relationship with Madame Blavatsky, the co-founder of the Theosophical Society, residing with her until her passing. Blavatsky referred to him by the nickname "The Astral Tramp."

Sepharial made significant contributions to the fields of astrology and numerology, authoring numerous books that remain of interest in certain circles. He is credited with being the first astrologer to utilize the concept of a hypothetical natural satellite of Earth, which he named "dark moon" Lilith due to its presumed invisible nature. His work extended to editing Old Moore's Almanac, a publication that has persisted through the centuries. He also attempted to launch several astrological magazines, though none achieved lasting success. His writings influenced prominent figures like Alfred H. Barley and Alan Leo, whom he introduced to Theosophy, solidifying his role as a key figure in the esoteric landscape of his time.

“The Astral Tramp”