Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him, "Surely this man is a skilful sorcerer. 34 who wants to drive you out of your land by his magic. Tell us, what do you advise us?" 35 They said, "Postpone [the matter of] him and his brother and send among the cities gatherers 36 And bring the ablest magicians to you." 37 So the sorcerers were gathered on the appointed day 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 (They said): "We may haply follow the magicians if they are victorious." 40 And when the wizards came they said unto Pharaoh: Will there surely be a reward for us if we are the winners? 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 their ropes and their staffs, and said, 'By the might of Pharaoh we shall be the victors.' 44 Then Moses threw his staff and lo! it swallowed that which they did falsely show. 45 Then did the sorcerers fall down, prostrate in adoration, 46 Saying: "We believe in the Lord of the 'Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists). 47 the Lord of Moses and Aaron." 48 Said Pharaoh, 'You have believed him before I gave you leave. Why, he is the chief of you, the same that taught you sorcery; now you shall know! I shall assuredly cut off alternately your hands and feet, then I shall crucify you all together.' 49 They said, "No harm. Indeed, to our Lord we will return. 50 "Only, our desire is that our Lord will forgive us our faults, that we may become foremost among the believers!" 51