Pharaoh said to the chiefs around him, "Surely this man is a skilful sorcerer. 34 who seeks to expel you from your land by his sorcery. What is your counsel' 35 They said, "Hold him and his brother off for a while 36 and summon every skillful magician from all the cities." 37 So the magicians were brought together on a particular day at a set time 38 And it was said to the people, “Have you (also) gathered?” 39 We may perhaps follow the religion of the magicians if they triumph." 40 Then, when the sorcerers came to Pharaoh, they said: 'Shall we receive a wage if we win' 41 He replied, "Certainly, in that case you will join my inner circle." 42 Moses said unto them: Throw what ye are going to throw! 43 Thereupon they threw down their ropes and their rods, and said: "By the glory of Pharaoh, we shall prevail." 44 [But] then Moses threw his staff - and lo! it swallowed up all their deceptions. 45 so the sorcerers were cast down, bowing themselves. 46 And said: "We (affirm and) believe in the Lord of all the worlds, 47 The Lord of Musa and Harun. 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: "No matter! for us, we shall but return to our Lord! 50 We hope that our Lord will forgive us for our sins; we were not believers at first." 51