When seekers speak of “authoritative” treatments of the Śiva Purāṇa, they are usually pointing to two things: a sound Sanskrit base text and translations or explanations that stay close to that received tradition. Among English renderings, the multi‑volume translation associated with J. L. Shastri and published by Motilal Banarsidass is widely regarded as a careful, relatively literal presentation of the text, and so it has become a common point of reference in academic and devotional study alike. Another complete English translation is that of Manmatha Nath Dutt, which, though marked by older, Victorian‑era language and sometimes questioned for its style and interpretive choices, is still noted as a significant attempt to present the whole work in English.

For those reading in Indian languages, certain editions have become de facto standards in practice. The Hindi translation issued by Gita Press, Gorakhpur, is often treated as a trustworthy representation of the scripture, reflecting that publisher’s general reputation for fidelity to traditional texts. There are also respected Hindi commentarial works, such as the comprehensive exposition by Vidyāsāgar Madhav Prasad Dwivedi, which aim not only to translate but to unpack the theological and narrative layers of the Purāṇa for serious students and devotees.

Alongside these, various Sanskrit‑vernacular diglot editions from traditional presses serve as “working texts” in temples, satsangs, and home study, even when they do not carry an elaborate classical commentary. Their authority tends to rest less on a single, universally recognized bhāṣya and more on the continuity of usage within particular lineages and communities. In this way, the Śiva Purāṇa is approached through a constellation of respected editions and translations rather than through one solitary, canonical commentary, inviting the seeker to engage the text through multiple, mutually reinforcing lenses.