'This', said he (Pharaoh) to his Council, 'is a cunning sorcerer 34 "His plan is to get you out of your land by his sorcery; then what is it ye counsel?" 35 They said, 'Put him and his brother off a while, and send among the cities musterers, 36 “To bring to you every expert great magician.” 37 So the magicians were gathered at a set time on a day appointed. 38 and the people were asked, "Will you all be there?" 39 We may perhaps follow the religion of the magicians if they triumph." 40 And when the wizards came they said unto Pharaoh: Will there surely be a reward for us if we are the winners? 41 He said, “Yes, and you will then become close to me.” 42 Moses said to them: "Throw down whatever you wish to throw." 43 So they threw their ropes and their staffs and said, "By the might of Pharaoh, indeed it is we who are predominant." 44 Then Moses threw down his staff, and lo, it swallowed up their conjurations. 45 Then the magicians fell prostrating in adoration, 46 Saying: "We believe in the Lord of the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists). 47 "The Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 Said (the Pharaoh): "You have come to believe in him before I gave you leave. He is surely your chief, who taught you magic. You will soon come to know: I will have your hands and feet cut off on alternate sides, and have every one of you crucified." 49 They said: "No matter! for us, we shall but return to our Lord! 50 We hope our Lord will forgive us, as we are the first of the believers." 51