Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him, "Surely this man is a skilful sorcerer. 34 who wants to drive you out of your land by his magic. Tell us, what do you advise us?" 35 They said, "Let him and his brother wait a while, and send heralds into the cities, 36 to mobilise all skilled magicians." 37 So the sorcerers were assembled at a fixed time on a day appointed. 38 and the people were asked: Are you all present, 39 in order that we shall follow the sorcerers if they are the victors' 40 So when the sorcerers arrived, they said to Pharaoh: "Of course - shall we have a (suitable) reward if we win? 41 He replied, "Certainly, in that case you will join my inner circle." 42 Moses said to them: "Throw down whatever you wish to throw." 43 So they cast their ropes and their staffs, and said, 'By the might of Pharaoh we shall be the victors.' 44 Then Moses threw down his staff, and lo, it swallowed up their conjurations. 45 Then the magicians fell prostrating in adoration, 46 And said: "We (affirm and) believe in the Lord of all the worlds, 47 "The Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 Said (Pharaoh): "Believe ye in Him before I give you permission? surely he is your leader, who has taught you sorcery! but soon shall ye know! Be sure I will cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will cause you all to die on the cross!" 49 They said: It is no hurt, for lo! unto our Lord we shall return. 50 We hope our Lord will forgive us, as we are the first of the believers." 51