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, "Postpone [the matter of] him and his brother and send among the cities gatherers 36 to bring thee every cunning sorcerer. 37 So the sorcerers were assembled for the appointed time of a fixed day. 38 And it was said to the people: Will you gather together? 39 "That we may follow the sorcerers (in religion) if they win?" 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 will then become close to me.” 42 Musa said to them: Cast what you are going to cast. 43 So they cast down their ropes and staffs saying, "By the honor of the Pharaoh we shall certainly become the winners". 44 Then Moses threw his staff and lo! it swallowed that which they did falsely show. 45 So the magicians fell down in prostration [to Allah]. 46 saying: 'We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 47 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 answered: "No harm [canst thou do to us]: verily, unto our Sustainer do we turn! 50 "Only, our desire is that our Lord will forgive us our faults, that we may become foremost among the believers!" 51