Said [pharaoh] unto the great ones around him: "Verily, this is indeed a sorcerer of great knowledge 34 Who would drive you out of your land by his magic. Now what counsel ye? 35 They said, 'Put him and his brother off a while, and send among the cities musterers, 36 “To bring to you every expert great magician.” 37 So the wizards were gathered together at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people: Will you gather together? 39 That we might follow the magicians if they are the predominant?" 40 When the magicians came, they asked Pharaoh, "Shall we have a reward, if we are the winners?" 41 He said, "Yes, and indeed, you will then be of those near [to me]." 42 Moses said to the magicians, "Throw down whatever you are going to throw." 43 So they threw their ropes and their rods, and said: "By the might of Pharaoh, it is we who will certainly win!" 44 Then Moses threw down his staff, and lo, it swallowed up their conjurations. 45 The magicians fell down in adoration 46 Crying: We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 47 "The Lord 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, “No harm (in it), we will return to our Lord.” 50 and we surely expect that Our Lord will forgive us our sins for we are the first ones to believe." 51