(Pharaoh) said to the Chiefs around him: "This is indeed a sorcerer well-versed: 34 He wants to drive you out of your land by his magic, so what do you advise?" 35 They said, "Let him and his brother wait a while, and send heralds into the cities, 36 Who shall bring unto thee every knowing wizard. 37 So all the magicians gathered together at the appointed time 38 and the people were asked, "Will you all be there?" 39 The people said, “Perhaps we may follow the magicians if they are victorious.” 40 "When the magicians came, they asked the Pharaoh, "Will there be any reward for us if we win?" 41 He said, 'Yes indeed; and you shall then be among the near-stationed.' 42 Moses said to them: "Cast what you have to cast." 43 So they cast down their ropes and staffs saying, "By the honor of the Pharaoh we shall certainly become the winners". 44 Then Moses cast his staff and lo, it forthwith swallowed up their lying invention; 45 The magicians fell down prostrate, 46 And said: "We (affirm and) believe in the Lord of all the worlds, 47 and the Lord 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 said, "No harm. Indeed, to our Lord we will return. 50 Behold, we [but] ardently desire that our Sustainer forgive us our faults in return for our having been foremost among the believers!" 51