Eliphas Levi was a French occultist and author born in 1810, known for his influential works on magic and the esoteric. His real name was Alphonse Louis Constant, and he played a significant role in the revival of interest in Kabbalah and Hermeticism during the 19th century. Levi is best known for his books, including "Dogme et Rituel de la Haute Magie," which explored the principles of magic and the spiritual world. Levi's ideas helped shape modern Western esotericism and influenced various spiritual movements, including Theosophy and Freemasonry. He is often credited with popularizing the image of the Baphomet, a symbol associated with occultism. His work continues to be studied by those interested in the mystical and magical traditions.