'This', said he (Pharaoh) to his Council, 'is a cunning sorcerer 34 He would drive you out of your land through his magic; what then is it ye command? 35 They answered: "Let him and his brother wait a while, and send unto all cities heralds 36 who shall bring to you every skilful sorcerer." 37 So the magicians were gathered together at the appointed time on the fixed day, 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 That we might follow the magicians if they are the predominant?" 40 Then, when the sorcerers came to Pharaoh, they said: 'Shall we receive a wage if we win' 41 He said: Aye, and ye will then surely be of those brought near (to me). 42 Moses said to them: "Throw ye - that which ye are about to throw!" 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 at once it devoured what they falsified. 45 Then the magicians flung themselves prostrate. 46 saying: 'We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 47 The Lord of Moses and Aaron. 48 (Pharaoh) said: Ye put your faith in him before I give you leave. Lo! he doubtless is your chief who taught you magic! But verily ye shall come to know. Verily I will cut off your hands and your feet alternately, and verily I will crucify you every one. 49 They said: It is no hurt, for lo! unto our Lord we shall return. 50 Behold, we [but] ardently desire that our Sustainer forgive us our faults in return for our having been foremost among the believers!" 51