Said he to the Council about him, 'Surely this man 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 off him and his brother, and send unto the cities callers. 36 who shall bring to you every skilful sorcerer." 37 So the sorcerers were assembled at a fixed time on a day appointed. 38 And the people were told: "Are ye (now) assembled?- 39 Haply we shall follow the sorcerers if it should be they are the victors.' 40 Then, when the sorcerers came to Pharaoh, they said: 'Shall we receive a wage if we win' 41 He replied, "You will then be my closest associates". 42 Moses said to them: "Throw down whatever you wish to throw." 43 Thereupon they threw their [magic ropes and their staffs, and said: "By Pharaoh's might, behold, it is we indeed who have prevailed!" 44 Then Moses threw his staff, and at once it devoured what they falsified. 45 And the wizards were flung prostrate, 46 They said: we believe in the Lord of the worlds. 47 The Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 (Pharaoh) said: Ye put your faith in him before I give you leave. Lo! he doubtless is your chief who taught you magic! But verily ye shall come to know. Verily I will cut off your hands and your feet alternately, and verily I will crucify you every one. 49 They said: "No matter! for us, we shall but return to our Lord! 50 We hope our Lord will forgive us, as we are the first of the believers." 51