'This', said he (Pharaoh) to his Council, 'is a cunning sorcerer 34 He wants to drive you out of your land by his magic, so what do you advise?" 35 They said, “Stop him and his brother, and send gatherers to the cities.” 36 And bring the ablest magicians to you." 37 So all the magicians gathered together at the appointed time 38 And it was said unto the people: Are ye (also) gathering? 39 so that we might follow [in the footsteps of] the sorcerers if it is they who prevail?" 40 When the magicians came forth (for the encounter) they said to Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we triumph?" 41 He said: Yes, and surely you will then be of those who are made near. 42 (Moses) asked the magicians, "Cast down what you want to". 43 So they threw down their ropes and their staves and exclaimed, “By the honour of Firaun, indeed victory is ours!” 44 Then Musa cast down his staff and lo! it swallowed up the lies they told. 45 And the wizards were flung prostrate, 46 saying: "We (now) believe in the Lord of the Universe, 47 “The Lord of Moosa and Haroon.” 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 answered: "No harm [canst thou do to us]: verily, unto our Sustainer do we turn! 50 Verily we long that our Lord shall forgive us our faults because we have been the first of the believers 51