The Pharaoh said to the people around him, "He is certainly a skillful magician. 34 “He wishes to expel you out of your land by his magic; so what is your advice?” 35 They said, "Postpone [the matter of] him and his brother and send among the cities gatherers 36 “To bring to you every expert great magician.” 37 So the magicians were gathered at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said unto the people: are ye going to assemble. 39 "That we may follow the sorcerers (in religion) if they win?" 40 And when the magicians arrived, they said to Pharaoh, "Is there indeed for us a reward if we are the predominant?" 41 Answered he: "Yea - and verily, in that case you shall be among those who are near unto me. 42 Moses said to them: "Cast what you have to cast." 43 So they cast their ropes and staffs, saying: 'By Pharaoh's might, we shall be the victors' 44 Then Moses threw down his staff, and lo, it swallowed up their conjurations. 45 Then did the sorcerers fall down, prostrate in adoration, 46 Saying: "We believe in the Lord of the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists). 47 "The Lord of Musa (Moses) and Harun (Aaron)." 48 The Pharaoh said, "You believed without my permission? He seems to be your chief who has taught you magic. But you will soon know (the result of what you have done). I shall certainly cut off your hands and feet on opposite sides and crucify you all together." 49 They said: "There will be no harm. We shall return to our Lord. 50 We are eager that Our Lord should forgive us our offenses, for we are the first of the believers' 51