Pharaoh said to the nobles around him: "Surely this man is a skilled magician 34 Who wants to drive you out of your land by his sorcery. Now what do you advise?" 35 They said: "Put him off and his brother (for a while), and send callers to the cities 36 who shall bring to you every skilful sorcerer." 37 So the magicians were gathered at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 That we might follow the magicians if they are the predominant?" 40 When the magicians arrived, they said to the Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we are victorious?" -- 41 He replied, "You will then be my closest associates". 42 (Moses) asked the magicians, "Cast down what you want to". 43 So they cast their ropes and rods, and said: "By the glory of Pharaoh, we shall be victorious." 44 Then Moses threw down his staff, and it swallowed up all that they had conjured into being. 45 Then the magicians flung themselves prostrate. 46 They said, "We have believed in the Lord of the worlds, 47 The Lord of Moses and Aaron. 48 [Pharaoh] said, "You believed Moses before I gave you permission. Indeed, he is your leader who has taught you magic, but you are going to know. I will surely cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will surely crucify you all." 49 They said, "No harm. Indeed, to our Lord we will return. 50 We certainly hope our Lord will forgive our sins as we are the first to believe." 51