[Pharaoh] said to the eminent ones around him, "Indeed, this is a learned magician. 34 who wants to drive you out of your land by his magic. Tell us, what do you advise us?" 35 They said, "Hold him and his brother off for a while 36 Who shall bring unto thee every knowing wizard. 37 So the sorcerers were got together for the appointment of a day well-known, 38 And the people were also asked to assemble. 39 so that we might follow [in the footsteps of] the sorcerers if it is they who prevail?" 40 When the magicians came forth (for the encounter) they said to Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we triumph?" 41 He said: "Yea, (and more),- for ye shall in that case be (raised to posts) nearest (to my person)." 42 Moses said to them: "Throw ye - that which ye are about to throw!" 43 So they cast down their ropes and staffs saying, "By the honor of the Pharaoh we shall certainly become the winners". 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 saying: "We (now) believe in the Lord of the Universe, 47 "The Lord of Musa (Moses) and Harun (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! verily unto our Lord we are to return. 50 Behold, we [but] ardently desire that our Sustainer forgive us our faults in return for our having been foremost among the believers!" 51