Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him, "Surely this man is a skilful sorcerer. 34 Who wants to drive you out of your land by his sorcery. Now what do you advise?" 35 They said: "Keep him and his brother in suspense (for a while), and dispatch to the Cities heralds to collect- 36 "And bring up to thee all (our) sorcerers well-versed." 37 So the sorcerers were gathered on the appointed day 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 Now when the sorcerers came, they said unto Pharaoh: "Verily, we ought to have a great reward if it is we who prevail. 41 'Yes, indeed' he answered, 'and you shall become among those who are near stationed' 42 Musa said unto them: cast whatsoever ye have to cast. 43 So they cast down their ropes and staffs, and said, "By Pharaoh's honour, we shall surely win." 44 Then Moses cast his staff and lo, it forthwith swallowed up their lying invention; 45 And down fell the sorcerers, prostrating themselves in adoration, 46 saying: 'We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 47 The Lord of Musa and Haroun. 48 (Pharaoh) said: Ye put your faith in him before I give you leave. Lo! he doubtless is your chief who taught you magic! But verily ye shall come to know. Verily I will cut off your hands and your feet alternately, and verily I will crucify you every one. 49 They said, 'There is no harm; surely unto our Lord we are turning. 50 Lo! we ardently hope that our Lord will forgive us our sins because we are the first of the believers. 51