'This', said he (Pharaoh) to his Council, 'is a cunning sorcerer 34 He wants to drive you out of your land by his magic. So, what do you bid?" 35 They said: Give him and his brother respite and send heralds into the cities 36 to bring every knowledgeable sorcerer' 37 So the wizards were gathered together at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 (They said): Aye, so that we may follow the wizards if they are the winners. 40 And when the magicians arrived, they said to Pharaoh, "Is there indeed for us a reward if we are the predominant?" 41 He said: Yes, and surely you will then be of those who are made near. 42 Musa said to them: Cast what you are going to cast. 43 So they cast down their ropes and staffs, and said, "By Pharaoh's honour, we shall surely win." 44 [But] then Moses threw his staff - and lo! it swallowed up all their deceptions. 45 Then the magicians flung themselves prostrate. 46 Saying: "We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 47 "The Lord of Musa (Moses) and Harun (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: no harm! verily unto our Lord we are to return. 50 Lo! we ardently hope that our Lord will forgive us our sins because we are the first of the believers. 51