Answered by Sayyidi Habib Umar bin Hafiz (may Allah protect him and benefit us by him).
Which books would you recommend reading to gain an understanding of the Path?
The books of Imam al-Ghazali, Imam al-Nawawi, and Imam al-Haddad are good for acquainting newcomers with the Path. The Path is to act on what is in those books and to combine between strengthening one’s faith and performing good deeds. ‘The Book of Assistance’ by Imam al-Haddad, for example, practically defines the Path.
The definitions of the Tariqah which can be found in the early prints of the Khulasah are sufficient. If someone is looking for more detail they can read Habib Zayn bin Ibrahim bin Sumayt’s book, al-Manhaj al-Sawi or the introduction of Habib `Aydarus bin `Umar al-Habashi’s `Iqd al-Yawaqit al-Jawhariyyah.