The Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him: "He is certainly a clever magician. 34 He wants to expel you from your land through his magic. What is your opinion?" 35 They said: "Put him off and his brother (for a while), and send callers to the cities 36 to bring thee every cunning sorcerer. 37 So the sorcerers were gathered on the appointed day 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 We may perhaps follow the religion of the magicians if they triumph." 40 When the magicians arrived, they said to the Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we are victorious?" -- 41 He replied, "Certainly, in that case you will join my inner circle." 42 Moses said to them, "Throw whatever you will throw." 43 So they threw down their ropes and their staves and exclaimed, “By the honour of Firaun, indeed victory is ours!” 44 Then Moses threw his staff and lo! it swallowed that which they did falsely show. 45 Then the magicians fell prostrating in adoration, 46 They said: we believe in the Lord of the worlds. 47 "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 said, 'There is no harm; surely unto our Lord we are turning. 50 We are eager that Our Lord should forgive us our offenses, for we are the first of the believers' 51