Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him, "Surely this man is a skilful sorcerer. 34 Who would drive you out of your land by his magic. Now what counsel ye? 35 They said, "Hold him and his brother off for a while 36 Who will bring you every learned, skilled magician." 37 So the sorcerers were assembled at a fixed time on a day appointed. 38 The people were asked, 'Will you assemble? 39 The people said, “Perhaps we may follow the magicians if they are victorious.” 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 you will then become close to me.” 42 Musa said to them: Cast what you are going to cast. 43 So they cast their ropes and their staffs, and said, 'By the might of Pharaoh we shall be the victors.' 44 Then Musa cast down his staff and lo! it swallowed up the lies they told. 45 The magicians therefore fell down prostrate. 46 Crying: We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 47 and the Lord of Moses and Aaron." 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: "There will be no harm. We shall return to our Lord. 50 We certainly hope our Lord will forgive our sins as we are the first to believe." 51