(Firon) said to the chiefs around him: Most surely this is a skillful magician, 34 He wants to drive you out of your land by his magic, so what do you advise?" 35 They said, "Hold him and his brother off for a while 36 That they should bring to you every skillful magician. 37 So the magicians were gathered at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And the people were also asked to assemble. 39 The people said, “Perhaps we may follow the magicians if they are victorious.” 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 you shall then verily be of those brought near (to myself)." 42 [And] Moses said unto them: "Throw whatever you are going to throw!" 43 So they threw down their ropes and their staves and exclaimed, “By the honour of Firaun, indeed victory is ours!” 44 Then Moses threw his staff and lo! it swallowed that which they did falsely show. 45 Then did the sorcerers fall down, prostrate in adoration, 46 They said: We believe in the Lord of the worlds: 47 “The Lord of Moosa and Haroon.” 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 matter! for us, we shall but return to our Lord! 50 We are eager that Our Lord should forgive us our offenses, for we are the first of the believers' 51