Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him, "Surely this man is a skilful sorcerer. 34 He wants to drive you out of your land by his magic, so what do you advise?" 35 They said, “Stop him and his brother, and send gatherers to the cities.” 36 and summon every skillful magician from all the cities." 37 So the sorcerers were gathered on the appointed day 38 and the people were asked: Are you all present, 39 Belike we may follow the magicians if they are the winners? 40 So when the sorcerers arrived, they said to Fir'aun (Pharaoh): "Will there surely be a reward for us if we are the winners?" 41 He said: Yes, and surely you will then be of those who are made near. 42 Moses said to them, 'Cast you down what you will cast.' 43 So they threw their ropes and their sticks, and said: "By the might of Fir'aun (Pharaoh), it is we who will certainly win!" 44 [But] then Moses threw his staff - and lo! it swallowed up all their deceptions. 45 Then the magicians fell prostrating in adoration, 46 saying: "We (now) believe in the Lord of the Universe, 47 "The Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 Said (the Pharaoh): "You have come to believe in him before I gave you leave. He is surely your chief, who taught you magic. You will soon come to know: I will have your hands and feet cut off on alternate sides, and have every one of you crucified." 49 They said, "No harm. Indeed, to our Lord we will return. 50 We are eager that Our Lord should forgive us our offenses, for we are the first of the believers' 51