The Pharaoh said to the people around him, "He is certainly a skillful magician. 34 who wants to drive you out of your land by his magic. Tell us, what do you advise us?" 35 They said: "Keep him and his brother in suspense (for a while), and dispatch to the Cities heralds to collect- 36 That they should bring to you every skillful magician. 37 So the magicians were gathered at a set time on a day appointed. 38 and the people were told: "Will you join the assembly? 39 The people said, “Perhaps we may follow the magicians if they are victorious.” 40 When the magicians came forth (for the encounter) they said to Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we triumph?" 41 'Yes, indeed' he answered, 'and you shall become among those who are near stationed' 42 Moses said to the magicians, "Throw down whatever you are going to throw." 43 So they cast down their ropes and staffs, and said, "By Pharaoh's honour, we shall surely win." 44 Then Musa cast down his staff, and lo! it swallowed up that which they had devised. 45 And the sorcerers fell down prostrate. 46 And said: "We (affirm and) believe in the Lord of all the worlds, 47 "The Lord of Musa (Moses) and Harun (Aaron)." 48 [Pharaoh] said, "You believed Moses before I gave you permission. Indeed, he is your leader who has taught you magic, but you are going to know. I will surely cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will surely crucify you all." 49 They said, "No harm. Indeed, to our Lord we will return. 50 We are eager that our Lord should forgive us our offences, for that we are the first of the believers.' 51