'This', said he (Pharaoh) to his Council, 'is a cunning sorcerer 34 “He wishes to expel you out of your land by his magic; so what is your advice?” 35 They said: "Keep him and his brother in suspense (for a while), and dispatch to the Cities heralds to collect- 36 That they may bring to thee every magician knowing. 37 So the wizards were gathered together at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 so that we may follow the magicians, if they be the winners." 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 indeed, you will then be of those near [to me]." 42 Moses said to them: "Throw down whatever you wish to throw." 43 So they cast down their cords and their rods and said: By Firon's power, we shall most surely be victorious. 44 Then Musa cast down his staff, and lo! it swallowed up that which they had devised. 45 Then the magicians fell prostrating in adoration, 46 Saying: "We believe in the Lord of the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists). 47 The Lord of Musa and Haroun. 48 He (Pharaoh) said: 'You have believed him before I have given you permission. He is the chief of you who has taught you sorcery. But you shall know. I will surely cut off on opposite sides a hand and a foot, and crucify you all.' 49 They said: No harm; surely to our Lord we go back; 50 Behold, we [but] ardently desire that our Sustainer forgive us our faults in return for our having been foremost among the believers!" 51