The Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him: "He is certainly a clever magician. 34 "He wants to drive you out of your land by his sorcery, then what is it your counsel, and what do you command?" 35 They said: Give him and his brother respite and send heralds into the cities 36 And bring the ablest magicians to you." 37 So the sorcerers were gathered on the appointed day 38 And the people were also asked to assemble. 39 in order that we shall follow the sorcerers if they are the victors' 40 So when the sorcerers arrived, they said to Fir'aun (Pharaoh): "Will there surely be a reward for us if we are the winners?" 41 He said: Yes, and surely you will then be of those who are made near. 42 Moses said to them, 'Cast you down what you will cast.' 43 So they threw their ropes and their staffs and said, "By the might of Pharaoh, indeed it is we who are predominant." 44 Then Moses threw his staff and lo! it swallowed that which they did falsely show. 45 so the sorcerers were cast down, prostrating themselves, 46 They said, 'We believe in the Lord of all Being, 47 The Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 Pharaoh said, "Have you come to believe in him, before I have given you permission? He is surely your master who has taught you magic. But you shall see. I will cut off your hands and feet on alternate sides and crucify you all." 49 They said: It is no hurt, for lo! unto our Lord we shall return. 50 We are eager that Our Lord should forgive us our offenses, for we are the first of the believers' 51