Said he to the Council about him, 'Surely this man is a cunning sorcerer 34 He wants to drive you out of your land by his magic, so what do you advise?" 35 They said: Give him and his brother respite and send heralds into the cities 36 to mobilise all skilled magicians." 37 So the magicians were assembled at a stated time and place on an appointed day. 38 and the people were asked: 'Will you gather 39 We may perhaps follow the religion of the magicians if they triumph." 40 When the magicians came forth (for the encounter) they said to Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we triumph?" 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 Then they threw down their cords and their staves and said: By Pharaoh's might, lo! we verily are the winners. 44 Then Moses cast down his staff and it swallowed up their lying invention, 45 Then the magicians flung themselves prostrate. 46 saying: 'We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 47 and the Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 [Fir'aun (Pharaoh)] said: "You have believed in him before I give you leave. Surely, he indeed is your chief, who has taught you magic! So verily, you shall come to know. Verily, I will cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will crucify you all." 49 They said: No harm; surely to our Lord we go back; 50 We hope our Lord will forgive us, as we are the first of the believers." 51