Is it permissible for Shaafis to recite a Surah in the 3rd and 4th raka'ts?

Answer

According to the Shaafi' Math-hab and also according to the Hanafi Math -hab, a Surah should be recited after Surah Faatihah in the first two raka'ts of Fardh Salaat. It is not a Sunnah to recite a Surah after Surah Faatihah in the 3rd and 4th raka't of Fardh Salaat.

If the Shaafi' performs four raka'ts Nafl, but with one Tashahhud, then he/she should recite a Surah in even the 3rd and 4th raka't. However, if the four raka'ts Nafl are performed with two Tashahhuds, then a Surah should not be recited in the 3rd and 4th raka'ts.