(Pharaoh) said to the Chiefs around him: "This is indeed a sorcerer well-versed: 34 He wants to expel you from your land through his magic. What is your opinion?" 35 They said: Give him and his brother respite and send heralds into the cities 36 "To bring up to you every well-versed sorcerer." 37 So the magicians were gathered at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people: "Are you (too) going to assemble? 39 so that we might follow [in the footsteps of] the sorcerers if it is they who prevail?" 40 Now when the sorcerers came, they said unto Pharaoh: "Verily, we ought to have a great reward if it is we who prevail. 41 He replied, "Certainly, in that case you will join my inner circle." 42 Musa said to them: Cast what you are going to 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 Then Moses cast his staff and lo, it forthwith swallowed up their lying invention; 45 And the sorcerers fell down prostrate. 46 saying, "We believe in the Lord of the Universe 47 The Lord of Musa and Haroun. 48 Said (Pharaoh): "Believe ye in Him before I give you permission? surely he is your leader, who has taught you sorcery! but soon shall ye know! Be sure I will cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will cause you all to die on the cross!" 49 They said: "We do not care, for we are bound to return to our Lord, 50 We are eager that our Lord should forgive us our offences, for that we are the first of the believers.' 51