I have been recommended the following two books to read to learn about the proper Islamic aqidah: 1. al-Ibânah `an Usûl al-Diyânah by Abû al-Hasan al-Ash`arî 2. al-I`tiqâd wal-Hidâyah ilâ Sabîl al-Rashâd by al-Bayhaqî [edited by Ahmad b. Abî al-`Aynayn] What is your opinion on the above books. Can you please also recommend some books for one who wants to learn the basics of his faith and has been told to focus on Aqidah first?

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

Both of these books (“Al-Ibaanah” written by Abu Al-Hasan Al-Ash'ari and “Al-I'tiqaad” authored by Al-Bayhaqi ) which you mentioned in the question are important in determining the methodology of the Salaf (righteous predecessors ) in matters of belief. These are medium level books and it is more appropriate for a beginner to start with concise books like 'The Three Fundamental Principles of Islam', 'Clarification of Uncertainties' [by Mohammad Ibn ‘Abd Al-Wahhaab], and '200 FAQ on Islamic Belief', and other concise books for beginners.

The most important thing a seeker of knowledge should be concerned with is the Book of Allaah, memorizing it and reading its interpretation. Moreover, one should seek knowledge from a scholar who is known to be righteous and has a correct belief so that he would teach him properly and guide him in a proper way.

Allaah Knows best.