It is said that the 18 maha-puranas were written by Maharshi Ved-Vyas, but, why do all puranas contradict each other? for example, according to Bhagavatam and Vishnu Purana, Krishna or Vishnu is the supreme god and source of everything [and Shiva is a devotee of Vishnu], but, according to shiva purana, Shiva is the supreme god and source of everything [and also Vishnu is a devotee of krishna].
Even the stories of the creation of the universe are different.
When The Puranas were written by the same person why did he write them in such a way that they are contradictory to each other?
Replies
Hinduism thrives on diversity, allowing room for multiple viewpoints. Interpretations vary based on regional traditions, sects, and personal beliefs. The same sage, Maharshi Ved-Vyas, compiled these texts, but they reflect different aspects of the divine.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar explored these contradictions in his work “Riddles in Hinduism.” He highlighted the lack of coherence and the layers of symbolism within the scriptures. In summary, the Puranas mirror the complexity of existence itself—multifaceted, contradictory, and open to interpretation. Each seeker finds their path within this rich tapestry of stories and wisdom.
You can learn related information here: https://www.thehindu.com/society/faith/ramayanas-smash karts-superiority/article36597987.ece
Hare Krsna
There is complete agreement among the Upaniṣads, Vedānta-sūtra, Vedas, Bhagavad-gītā and Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam, and no one should try to reach any conclusion about the Vedas without receiving instructions from members of Vyāsadeva’s disciplic succession, who believe in the Personality of Godhead and His diverse energies as they are explained in Śrī Īśopaniṣad. (Purport Isopanishad Shloka 6)
Please read the entire purport to the shloka 6 of Isopanishad given by Srila Prabhupada. The apparent contradictions are mostly due to misinterpretations by people who try to interpret scriptures on their own.
Hare Krsna