(Pharaoh) said to the Chiefs around him: "This is indeed a sorcerer well-versed: 34 who wants to drive you out of your land by his magic. Tell us, what do you advise us?" 35 They said, "Hold him and his brother off for a while 36 And bring the ablest magicians to you." 37 So the sorcerers were got together for the appointment of a day well-known, 38 And it was said to the people: "Are you (too) going to assemble? 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 you shall then verily be of those brought near (to myself)." 42 Musa said to them: Cast what you are going to cast. 43 So they cast down their ropes and staffs, and said, "By Pharaoh's honour, we shall surely win." 44 Then Moses cast his staff and lo, it forthwith swallowed up their lying invention; 45 And down fell the sorcerers, prostrating themselves in adoration, 46 [and] exclaimed: "We have come to believe in the Sustainer 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 They answered: "No harm [canst thou do to us]: verily, unto our Sustainer do we turn! 50 Surely we hope that our Lord will forgive us our wrongs because we are the first of the believers. 51