[Pharaoh] said to the eminent ones around him, "Indeed, this is a learned magician. 34 who desires to expel you from your land by his sorcery; what do you command?' 35 They said: "Put him off and his brother (for a while), and send callers to the cities 36 And bring the ablest magicians to you." 37 So the sorcerers were gathered on the appointed day 38 And it was said to the people, "Will you congregate 39 We may perhaps follow the religion of the magicians if they triumph." 40 So when the sorcerers arrived, they said to Pharaoh: "Of course - shall we have a (suitable) reward if we win? 41 He said: Yes, and surely you will then be of those who are made near. 42 Moses said to the magicians, "Throw down whatever you are going to throw." 43 So they threw their ropes and their staffs and said, "By the might of Pharaoh, indeed it is we who are predominant." 44 Then Moses threw his staff and lo! it swallowed that which they did falsely show. 45 And down fell the sorcerers, prostrating themselves in adoration, 46 They said: We believe in the Lord of the worlds: 47 the Lord of Moses and Aaron.' 48 Said (the Pharaoh): "You have come to believe in him before I gave you leave. He is surely your chief, who taught you magic. You will soon come to know: I will have your hands and feet cut off on alternate sides, and have every one of you crucified." 49 They said: "No harm! Surely, to our Lord (Allah) we are to return; 50 We hope our Lord will forgive us, as we are the first of the believers." 51