'This', said he (Pharaoh) to his Council, 'is a cunning sorcerer 34 "He wants to drive you out of your land by his sorcery, then what is it your counsel, and what do you command?" 35 They said: "Put him and his brother off awhile, and send summoners to the cities to gather 36 "To bring up to you every well-versed sorcerer." 37 So the wizards were gathered together at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said unto the people: Are ye (also) gathering? 39 (They said): "We may haply follow the magicians if they are victorious." 40 Then, when the sorcerers came to Pharaoh, they said: 'Shall we receive a wage if we win' 41 He said: Yes, and surely you will then be of those who are made near. 42 Musa said unto them: cast whatsoever ye have to cast. 43 So they cast their ropes and staffs, saying: 'By Pharaoh's might, we shall be the victors' 44 Then Moses cast his staff and lo, it forthwith swallowed up their lying invention; 45 Then the magicians fell prostrating in adoration, 46 Crying: 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 Indeed, we aspire that our Lord will forgive us our sins because we were the first of the believers." 51