'This', said he (Pharaoh) to his Council, 'is a cunning sorcerer 34 who wants to drive you out of your land by his magic. Tell us, what do you advise us?" 35 They said, “Stop him and his brother, and send gatherers to the cities.” 36 And bring the ablest magicians to you." 37 So the sorcerers were assembled at a fixed time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people: "Are you (too) going to assemble? 39 The people said, “Perhaps we may follow the magicians if they are victorious.” 40 So when the sorcerers arrived, they said to Fir'aun (Pharaoh): "Will there surely be a reward for us if we are the winners?" 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 their ropes and rods, and said: "By the glory of Pharaoh, we shall be victorious." 44 Then Musa cast down his staff and lo! it swallowed up the lies they told. 45 The magicians fell down prostrate, 46 Saying: "We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 47 the Lord of Moses and Aaron' 48 [Fir'aun (Pharaoh)] said: "You have believed in him before I give you leave. Surely, he indeed is your chief, who has taught you magic! So verily, you shall come to know. Verily, I will cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will crucify you all." 49 They said, "There is no harm. To our Lord we shall return. 50 "Verily! We really hope that our Lord will forgive us our sins, as we are the first of the believers [in Musa (Moses) and in the Monotheism which he has brought from Allah]." 51