Answer by Monthly Al-Sunnah, Jhelum
It is not mandatory to follow the sequential order of Surahs in Salah. Reciting Surahs out of order is permissible (i.e., reciting a later Surah before an earlier one). However, it is preferable to maintain the sequence as found in the Quran.Evidence from Hadith
Narration of Sayyiduna Hudhayfah (رضي الله عنه):"I prayed Tahajjud with the Prophet (ﷺ) one night. He began reciting Surah Al-Baqarah. I thought he would bow (go into Ruku‘) after 100 verses, but he continued. Then I thought he would bow after completing the Surah, but he continued and started Surah An-Nisa’. He completed it as well and then started Surah Aal-e-‘Imran..."
[Sahih Muslim: 772, 1/264 (Darisi Edition)]
Key Point from This Hadith
Surah Aal-e-‘Imran comes before Surah An-Nisa’ in the Quranic order, but the Prophet (ﷺ) recited them in reverse order in prayer.This proves that following the exact order of Surahs is not obligatory in Salah.
Conclusion
Following the sequence of Surahs is preferable but not compulsory.Reciting Surahs in reverse order does not invalidate Salah.
