(Firon) said to the chiefs around him: Most surely this is a skillful magician, 34 He wants to expel you from your land through his magic. What is your opinion?" 35 They said, "Hold him and his brother off for a while 36 who shall assemble before thee all sorcerers of great knowledge" 37 So the magicians were assembled at a set time on a day made known. 38 And the people were also asked to assemble. 39 in order that we shall follow the sorcerers if they are the victors' 40 So when the sorcerers arrived, they said to Fir'aun (Pharaoh): "Will there surely be a reward for us if we are the winners?" 41 He replied, "You will then be my closest associates". 42 Moses said to them: "Throw down whatever you wish to throw." 43 So they threw their ropes and their rods, and said: "By the might of Pharaoh, it is we who will certainly win!" 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 Worlds, 47 The Lord of Musa and Harun. 48 Pharaoh said, "Have you come to believe in him, before I have given you permission? He is surely your master who has taught you magic. But you shall see. I will cut off your hands and feet on alternate sides and crucify you all." 49 They answered: "No harm [canst thou do to us]: verily, unto our Sustainer do we turn! 50 We are eager that our Lord should forgive us our offences, for that we are the first of the believers.' 51