[Pharaoh] said to the eminent ones around him, "Indeed, this is a learned magician. 34 who wants to drive you out of your land by his magic. Tell us, what do you advise us?" 35 They replied: 'Put him and his brother off for a while, and send heralds to your cities 36 Who shall bring unto thee every knowing wizard. 37 The sorcerers were gathered at the appointed time on a wellknown day, 38 And it was said to the people: Will you gather together? 39 so that we may follow the magicians if they become victorious? 40 "When the magicians came, they asked the Pharaoh, "Will there be any reward for us if we win?" 41 He said, "Yes, and indeed, you will then be of those near [to me]." 42 Moses said to them: "Cast what you have to cast." 43 So they cast their ropes and staffs, saying: 'By Pharaoh's might, we shall be the victors' 44 [But] then Moses threw his staff - and lo! it swallowed up all their deceptions. 45 The magicians therefore fell down prostrate. 46 They said: We believe in the Lord of the worlds: 47 the Sustainer of Moses and Aaron!" 48 The Pharaoh said, "You believed without my permission? He seems to be your chief who has taught you magic. But you will soon know (the result of what you have done). I shall certainly cut off your hands and feet on opposite sides and crucify you all together." 49 They said: no harm! verily unto our Lord we are to return. 50 We certainly hope our Lord will forgive our sins as we are the first to believe." 51