Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him, "Surely this man is a skilful sorcerer. 34 He wants to drive you out of your land by his magic. So, what do you bid?" 35 They replied: 'Put him and his brother off for a while, and send heralds to your cities 36 and summon every skillful magician from all the cities." 37 So the magicians were gathered at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 The people said, “Perhaps we may follow the magicians if they are victorious.” 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 said, "Yes, and indeed, you will then be of those near [to me]." 42 Musa said unto them: cast whatsoever ye have to cast. 43 So they cast down their ropes and staffs, and said, "By Pharaoh's honour, we shall surely win." 44 Then Musa (Moses) threw his stick, and behold, it swallowed up all the falsehoods which they showed! 45 And the wizards were flung prostrate, 46 saying: "We (now) believe in the Lord of the Universe, 47 the Lord of Moses and Aaron." 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 answered: "No harm [canst thou do to us]: verily, unto our Sustainer do we turn! 50 We hope that our Lord will forgive us for our sins; we were not believers at first." 51