(Firon) said to the chiefs around him: Most surely this is a skillful magician, 34 "His plan is to get you out of your land by his sorcery; then what is it ye counsel?" 35 They said: Put him off, (him) and his brother, and send into the cities summoners 36 to mobilise all skilled magicians." 37 The sorcerers were gathered at the appointed time on a wellknown day, 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 Belike we may follow the magicians if they are the winners? 40 And when the magicians arrived, they said to Pharaoh, "Is there indeed for us a reward if we are the predominant?" 41 He replied, "Certainly, in that case you will join my inner circle." 42 Moses said to them: 'Cast down what you cast' 43 So they cast their ropes and rods, and said: "By the glory of Pharaoh, we shall be victorious." 44 Then Moses cast his staff and lo, it forthwith swallowed up their lying invention; 45 Then did the sorcerers fall down, prostrate in adoration, 46 And said: "We (affirm and) believe in the Lord of all the worlds, 47 and the Lord of Moses and Aaron." 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 'There is no harm' they replied, 'for surely to our Lord we are turning. 50 We hope our Lord will forgive us, as we are the first of the believers." 51