[Pharaoh] said to the eminent ones around him, "Indeed, this is a learned magician. 34 He wants to expel you from your land through his magic. What is your opinion?" 35 They said: "Put him off and his brother (for a while), and send callers to the cities 36 Who shall bring unto thee every knowing wizard. 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 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: Aye, and ye will then surely be of those brought near (to me). 42 Moses said to the magicians, "Throw down whatever you are going to throw." 43 So they cast down their ropes and staffs, and said, "By Pharaoh's honour, we shall surely win." 44 Then Moses threw down his staff, and lo, it swallowed up their conjurations. 45 And down fell the sorcerers, prostrating themselves in adoration, 46 They said: We believe in the Lord of the worlds: 47 the Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 [Pharaoh] said, "You believed Moses before I gave you permission. Indeed, he is your leader who has taught you magic, but you are going to know. I will surely cut off your hands and your feet on opposite sides, and I will surely crucify you all." 49 They said: "There will be no harm. We shall return to our Lord. 50 We certainly hope our Lord will forgive our sins as we are the first to believe." 51