Said [pharaoh] unto the great ones around him: "Verily, this is indeed a sorcerer of great knowledge 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 And bring the ablest magicians to you." 37 And so the sorcerers were assembled at a set time on a certain day, 38 and the people were asked: Are you all present, 39 That we might follow the magicians if they are the predominant?" 40 And when the magicians arrived, they said to Pharaoh, "Is there indeed for us a reward if we are the predominant?" 41 He replied, "You will then be my closest associates". 42 Moses said to them, 'Cast you down what you will cast.' 43 So they cast down their ropes and staffs, and said, "By Pharaoh's honour, we shall surely win." 44 Then Moses cast down his staff and it swallowed up their lying invention, 45 And the wizards were flung prostrate, 46 They said: we believe in the Lord of the worlds. 47 the Sustainer 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, "There is no harm. To our Lord we shall return. 50 Surely we hope that our Lord will forgive us our wrongs because we are the first of the believers. 51