[Pharaoh] said to the eminent ones around him, "Indeed, this is a learned magician. 34 Who would drive you out of your land by his magic. Now what counsel ye? 35 They said: Give him and his brother respite and send heralds into the cities 36 “To bring to you every expert great magician.” 37 So the sorcerers were assembled at a fixed time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people: "Are you (too) going to assemble? 39 (They said): Aye, so that we may follow the wizards if they are the winners. 40 When the magicians arrived, they said to the Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we are victorious?" -- 41 He said: Yes, and surely you will then be of those who are made near. 42 Moses said to them: "Cast what you have to 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 [But] then Moses threw his staff - and lo! it swallowed up all their deceptions. 45 And the magicians were thrown down prostrate; 46 saying, "We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 47 the Lord of Moses and Aaron.' 48 Pharaoh said, "Have you come to believe in him, before I have given you permission? He is surely your master who has taught you magic. But you shall see. I will cut off your hands and feet on alternate sides and crucify you all." 49 They said: "No harm! Surely, to our Lord (Allah) we are to return; 50 We are eager that Our Lord should forgive us our offenses, for we are the first of the believers' 51