Said [pharaoh] unto the great ones around him: "Verily, this is indeed a sorcerer of great knowledge 34 “He wishes to expel you out of your land by his magic; so what is your advice?” 35 They said: Give him and his brother respite and send heralds into the cities 36 who shall assemble before thee all sorcerers of great knowledge" 37 So the magicians were brought together on a particular day at a set time 38 And the people were told: "Are ye (now) assembled?- 39 "That we may follow the sorcerers (in religion) if they win?" 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, 'Yes indeed; and you shall then be among the near-stationed.' 42 Moses said to them, "Throw whatever you will throw." 43 So they cast their ropes and staffs, saying: 'By Pharaoh's might, we shall be the victors' 44 Then Moses threw his rod, when, behold, it straightway swallows up all the falsehoods which they fake! 45 Then did the sorcerers fall down, prostrate in adoration, 46 Crying: We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 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 said, 'There is no harm; surely unto our Lord we are turning. 50 Lo! we ardently hope that our Lord will forgive us our sins because we are the first of the believers. 51