Said Firaun to the court members around him, “He is indeed an expert magician.” 34 “He wishes to expel you out of your land by his magic; so what is your advice?” 35 They replied: 'Put him and his brother off for a while, and send heralds to your cities 36 to mobilise all skilled magicians." 37 So the magicians were gathered together at the appointed time on the fixed day, 38 And it was said to the people, "Will you congregate 39 "That we may follow the sorcerers (in religion) if they win?" 40 When the magicians came forth (for the encounter) they said to Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we triumph?" 41 He replied, "You will then be my closest associates". 42 Moses said to them: "Throw down whatever you wish to throw." 43 Thereupon they threw down their ropes and their rods, and said: "By the glory of Pharaoh, we shall prevail." 44 Then Musa cast down his staff, and lo! it swallowed up that which they had devised. 45 so the sorcerers were cast down, prostrating themselves, 46 And said: "We (affirm and) believe in the Lord of all the worlds, 47 "The Lord of Musa (Moses) and Harun (Aaron)." 48 Said he: You believe in him before I give you permission; most surely he is the chief of you who taught you the magic, so you shall know: certainly I will cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and certainly I will crucify you all. 49 'There is no harm' they replied, 'for surely to our Lord we are turning. 50 Verily we long that our Lord shall forgive us our faults because we have been the first of the believers 51