How can I recognize if a person is a true sheikh whom I could accept as my spiritual guide (murshid)?

Answer

The first and foremost sign you have to look at in a man who is a khalifah of a Shaikh, is his life style. If he is in conflict with the Shariah, stay far, very far away from him regardless of whose khalifah he may be. The criterion is the Shariah and the Sunnah of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). The standard is not knowledge and ostensible piety. There is no piety in disobedience to the Shariah. Even if a 'shaikh' transforms stones into gold, flies in the air, walks on the water, cures the sick and displays numerous 'miracles', never follow him if his lifestyle is in conflict with the Shariah.