Said he to the Council about him, 'Surely this man is a cunning sorcerer 34 He wants to expel you from your land through his magic. What is your opinion?" 35 They said, "Let him and his brother wait a while, and send heralds into the cities, 36 and summon every skillful magician from all the cities." 37 So the wizards were gathered together at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 Haply we may follow the magicians, if they are the vanquishers. 40 When the magicians arrived, they said to the Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we are victorious?" -- 41 He said: yea; and ye shall verily then be of those brought nigh. 42 Moses said to them: 'Cast down what you cast' 43 Thereupon they threw their [magic ropes and their staffs, and said: "By Pharaoh's might, behold, it is we indeed who have prevailed!" 44 Then Moses threw his staff, and at once it devoured what they falsified. 45 The magicians therefore fell down prostrate. 46 saying: 'We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 47 "The Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 He (Pharaoh) said: 'You have believed him before I have given you permission. He is the chief of you who has taught you sorcery. But you shall know. I will surely cut off on opposite sides a hand and a foot, and crucify you all.' 49 They said, "No harm. Indeed, to our Lord we will 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