Said [pharaoh] unto the great ones around him: "Verily, this is indeed a sorcerer of great knowledge 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 said, “Stop him and his brother, and send gatherers to the cities.” 36 to bring thee every cunning sorcerer. 37 The sorcerers were gathered at the appointed time on a wellknown day, 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 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 them, "Throw whatever you will throw." 43 So they cast their ropes and rods, and said: "By the glory of Pharaoh, we shall be victorious." 44 Then Moses threw his staff, and at once it devoured what they falsified. 45 Thereupon the magicians fell down in prostration, 46 And said: "We (affirm and) believe in the Lord of all the worlds, 47 and the Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 Said [Pharaoh]: "Have you come to believe in him ere I have given you permission? Verily, he must be your master who has taught you magic! But in time you shall come to know [my revenge]: most certainly shall I cut off your hands and your feet in great numbers, because of [your] perverseness, and shall most certainly crucify you in great numbers, all together!" 49 They said, "No harm. Indeed, to our Lord we will return. 50 We are eager that our Lord should forgive us our offences, for that we are the first of the believers.' 51