Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him, "Surely this man is a skilful sorcerer. 34 He wants to expel you from your land through his magic. What is your opinion?" 35 They said: Put him off, (him) and his brother, and send into the cities summoners 36 who shall assemble before thee all sorcerers of great knowledge" 37 So the sorcerers were assembled for the appointed time of a fixed 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 When the magicians arrived, they said to the Pharaoh: "Is there a reward for us if we are victorious?" -- 41 He said: yea; and ye shall verily then be of those brought nigh. 42 Moses said to them: "Throw down whatever you wish to throw." 43 So they cast their ropes and their staffs, and said, 'By the might of Pharaoh we shall be the victors.' 44 Then Moses threw his staff and lo! it swallowed that which they did falsely show. 45 So the magicians fell down in prostration [to Allah]. 46 And said: "We (affirm and) believe in the Lord of all the worlds, 47 the Sustainer of Moses and 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 answered: "No harm [canst thou do to us]: verily, unto our Sustainer do we turn! 50 Lo! we ardently hope that our Lord will forgive us our sins because we are the first of the believers. 51