Can a Dua be recited between the two Sajdah in a fardh prayer?

Question:

Can we read duas between the sajdahs in a fardh prayer?

Answer:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.

In principle, the recitation of adʿiyah ma’thūrah (established supplications) between the Sajdah (prostration) is not from the sunnan of ṣalāh nor is it prohibited.  It is preferable to do so regardless of the ṣalāh being a farḍ (obligatory) or a nafl (voluntary) prayer.[1]

There are three types of people in respect to ṣalāh:

1)    The Imām (leader of prayer)
2)    The Muqtadī (follower in prayer)
3)    The Munfarid (sole performer of prayer)

The Imām may recite adʿiyah ma’thūrah between the sajdah on condition it does not lengthen the prayer to an extent it causes difficulty to the weak and old in the congregation.

The Muqtadī can recite adʿiyah ma’thūrah but should follow the Imam if the Imam goes into the Sajdah before he completes the entire duʿā’.[2]

The Munfarid may recite adʿiyah ma’thūrah between the two Sajdah at his discretion.

In conclusion, reciting adʿiyah ma’thūrah is a preferable action whether it is in a farḍ prayer or a nafl prayer.

And Allah Ta’ālā Knows Best

Mufti Faraz Adam al-Mahmudi, 
www.darulfiqh.com