[Pharaoh] said to the eminent ones around him, "Indeed, this is a learned magician. 34 Who desires to turn you out of your land with his magic; what is it then that you advise? 35 They said: Put him off, (him) and his brother, and send into the cities summoners 36 And bring the ablest magicians to you." 37 The sorcerers were gathered at the appointed time on a wellknown day, 38 And the people were also asked to assemble. 39 so that we may follow the magicians, if they be the winners." 40 When the magicians came forth (for the encounter) they said to Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we triumph?" 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 Then they threw down their cords and their staves and said: By Pharaoh's might, lo! we verily are the winners. 44 Then Moses threw his staff, and at once it devoured what they falsified. 45 so the sorcerers were cast down, prostrating themselves, 46 [and] exclaimed: "We have come to believe in the Sustainer of all the worlds, 47 the Lord of Moses and Aaron.' 48 Said Pharaoh, 'You have believed him before I gave you leave. Why, he is the chief of you, the same that taught you sorcery; now you shall know! I shall assuredly cut off alternately your hands and feet, then I shall crucify you all together.' 49 They said: No harm; surely to our Lord we go back; 50 Lo! we ardently hope that our Lord will forgive us our sins because we are the first of the believers. 51