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 sorcery, then what is it your counsel, and what do you command?" 35 They answered: "Let him and his brother wait a while, and send unto all cities heralds 36 and summon every skillful magician from all the cities." 37 So the magicians were assembled at a set time on a day made known. 38 And it was said unto the people: are ye going to assemble. 39 (They said): Aye, so that we may follow the wizards if they are the winners. 40 When the magicians arrived, they said to the Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we are victorious?" -- 41 He said: "Yes, and you shall then verily be of those brought near (to myself)." 42 Moses said to them, 'Cast you down what you will cast.' 43 So they threw their ropes and their rods, and said: "By the might of Pharaoh, it is we who will certainly win!" 44 Then Moses threw down his staff, and lo, it swallowed up their conjurations. 45 Then the magicians fell prostrating in adoration, 46 And said: "We (affirm and) believe in the Lord of all the worlds, 47 the Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 [Fir'aun (Pharaoh)] said: "You have believed in him before I give you leave. Surely, he indeed is your chief, who has taught you magic! So verily, you shall come to know. Verily, I will cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will crucify you all." 49 They said: "We do not care, for we are bound to return to our Lord, 50 We certainly hope our Lord will forgive our sins as we are the first to believe." 51