duty-bound to say nothing about God but the truth, and I have brought you a clear sign from your Lord. Let the Children of Israel go with me.’

Translation 1260

He said, ‘Produce this sign you have brought, if you are telling the truth.’

Translation 1260

So Moses threw his staff and- lo and behold!- it was a snake, clear to all

Translation 1260

and then he pulled out his hand and- lo and behold!- it was white for all to see

Translation 1260

The leaders among Pharaoh’s people said, ‘This man is a learned sorcerer

Translation 1260

He means to drive you out of your land!’ Pharaoh said, ‘What do you suggest?’

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They said, ‘Delay him and his brother for a while, and send messengers to all the cities

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to summon every learned sorcerer to you.’

Translation 1260

The sorcerers came to Pharaoh and said, ‘Shall we be rewarded if we win?’

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and he replied, ‘Yes, and you will join my inner court.’

Translation 1260

So they said, ‘Moses, will you throw first or shall we?’

Translation 1260

He said, ‘You throw,’ and they did, casting a spell on people’s eyes, striking fear into them, and bringing about great sorcery

Translation 1260

Then We inspired Moses, ‘Throw your staff,’ and- lo and behold!––it devoured their fakery

Translation 1260

The truth was confirmed and what they had produced came to nothing

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they were defeated there and utterly humiliated

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The sorcerers fell to their knees

Translation 1260