[Pharaoh] said to the eminent ones around him, "Indeed, this is a learned magician. 34 "His plan is to get you out of your land by his sorcery; then what is it ye counsel?" 35 They said, "Hold him and his brother off for a while 36 Who will bring you every learned, skilled magician." 37 So the wizards were gathered together at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people: Will you gather together? 39 so that we may follow the magicians if they become victorious? 40 When the magicians arrived, they said to the Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we are victorious?" -- 41 He said: Yes, and surely you will then be of those who are made near. 42 [And] Moses said unto them: "Throw whatever you are going to throw!" 43 So they cast their ropes and staffs, saying: 'By Pharaoh's might, we shall be the victors' 44 Then Musa cast down his staff, and lo! it swallowed up that which they had devised. 45 Thereupon the magicians fell down in prostration, 46 They said: We believe in the Lord of the worlds: 47 The Lord of Musa and Harun. 48 Said (Pharaoh): "Believe ye in Him before I give you permission? surely he is your leader, who has taught you sorcery! but soon shall ye know! Be sure I will cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will cause you all to die on the cross!" 49 They answered: "No harm [canst thou do to us]: verily, unto our Sustainer do we turn! 50 “We hope that our Lord will forgive us our mistakes, as we are the first to believe.” 51