(Pharaoh) said unto the chiefs about him: Lo! this is verily a knowing wizard, 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 Who will bring you every learned, skilled magician." 37 So the sorcerers were gathered on the appointed day 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 That we might follow the magicians if they are the predominant?" 40 When the magicians arrived, they said to the Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we are victorious?" -- 41 He replied, "Certainly, in that case you will join my inner circle." 42 Moses said to the magicians, "Throw down whatever you are going to throw." 43 So they cast their ropes and rods, and said: "By the glory of Pharaoh, we shall be victorious." 44 Thereafter, Moses threw down his rod and behold, it went about swallowing up all the false devices they had contrived. 45 So the magicians fell down in prostration [to Allah]. 46 [and] exclaimed: "We have come to believe in the Sustainer of all 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. Indeed, to our Lord we will return. 50 Surely we hope that our Lord will forgive us our wrongs because we are the first of the believers. 51