Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him, "Surely this man is a skilful sorcerer. 34 Who wants to drive you out of your land by his sorcery. Now what do you advise?" 35 They said, “Stop him and his brother, and send gatherers to the cities.” 36 That they should bring to you every skillful magician. 37 So all the magicians gathered together at the appointed time 38 And it was said to the people: Will you gather together? 39 Belike we may follow the magicians if they are the winners? 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 indeed; and you shall then be among the near-stationed.' 42 Moses said to them, 'Cast you down what you will cast.' 43 So they cast their ropes and their staffs, and said, 'By the might of Pharaoh we shall be the victors.' 44 Then Moses threw his staff, and at once it devoured what they falsified. 45 The magicians fell down prostrate, 46 saying: "We (now) believe in the Lord of the Universe, 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 answered: "No harm [canst thou do to us]: verily, unto our Sustainer do we turn! 50 We hope our Lord will forgive us, as we are the first of the believers." 51