(Firon) said to the chiefs around him: Most surely this is a skillful magician, 34 Who would drive you out of your land by his magic. Now what counsel ye? 35 They said, "Postpone [the matter of] him and his brother and send among the cities gatherers 36 who shall bring to you every skilful sorcerer." 37 So the wizards were gathered together at a set time on a day appointed. 38 and the people were asked, "Will you all be there?" 39 That we might follow the magicians if they are the predominant?" 40 When the magicians arrived, they said to the Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we are victorious?" -- 41 He said, 'Yes indeed; and you shall then be among the near-stationed.' 42 Moses said to them: "Throw down whatever you wish to throw." 43 Thereupon they threw their [magic ropes and their staffs, and said: "By Pharaoh's might, behold, it is we indeed who have prevailed!" 44 Then Moses threw down his staff, and it swallowed up all that they had conjured into being. 45 The magicians therefore fell down prostrate. 46 saying: "We (now) believe in the Lord of the Universe, 47 The Lord of Moses and Aaron. 48 Said (the Pharaoh): "You have come to believe in him before I gave you leave. He is surely your chief, who taught you magic. You will soon come to know: I will have your hands and feet cut off on alternate sides, and have every one of you crucified." 49 They said, 'There is no harm; surely unto our Lord we are turning. 50 We hope our Lord will forgive us, as we are the first of the believers." 51