Said [pharaoh] unto the great ones around him: "Verily, this is indeed a sorcerer of great knowledge 34 “He wishes to expel you out of your land by his magic; so what is your advice?” 35 They said, "Postpone [the matter of] him and his brother and send among the cities gatherers 36 That they should bring to you every skillful magician. 37 So the sorcerers were gathered on the appointed day 38 And it was said to the people, "Will you congregate 39 We may perhaps follow the religion of the magicians if they triumph." 40 Now when the sorcerers came, they said unto Pharaoh: "Verily, we ought to have a great reward if it is we who prevail. 41 "Yes," he replied. "You 'will be among the honoured." 42 Musa said unto them: cast whatsoever ye have to cast. 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 lo! it swallowed that which they did falsely show. 45 Thereupon the magicians fell down in prostration, 46 They said: we believe in the Lord of the worlds. 47 the Lord of Moses and Aaron.' 48 He (Pharaoh) said: 'You have believed him before I have given you permission. He is the chief of you who has taught you sorcery. But you shall know. I will surely cut off on opposite sides a hand and a foot, and crucify you all.' 49 They said: "We do not care, for we are bound to return to our Lord, 50 We hope that our Lord will forgive us for our sins; we were not believers at first." 51