Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him, "Surely this man is a skilful sorcerer. 34 He wants to drive you out of your land by his magic, so what do you advise?" 35 They answered: "Let him and his brother wait a while, and send unto all cities heralds 36 That they may bring to thee every magician knowing. 37 So the wizards were gathered together at a set time on a day appointed. 38 And it was said to the people: Will you gather together? 39 so that we might follow [in the footsteps of] the sorcerers if it is they who prevail?" 40 And when the magicians arrived, they said to Pharaoh, "Is there indeed for us a reward if we are the predominant?" 41 He said, “Yes, and you will then become close to me.” 42 Moses said to them: 'Cast down what you cast' 43 So they cast their ropes and staffs, saying: 'By Pharaoh's might, we shall be the victors' 44 Then Musa cast down his staff and lo! it swallowed up the lies they told. 45 The magicians fell down in adoration 46 Crying: We believe in the Lord of the Worlds, 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: It is no hurt, for lo! unto our Lord we shall return. 50 Verily we long that our Lord shall forgive us our faults because we have been the first of the believers 51