who is shrenik

King Shrenik is a historical figure mentioned in Jain literature as a ruler who was deeply concerned about the consequences of his karmas and the fate of his soul after death. According to the Jain story, he was willing to give up his entire kingdom to acquire the punya karma of a Jain layperson, Punia Shravak, particularly the merit earned through the practice of Samayika, a form of meditation and spiritual discipline. However, Punia Shravak explained to King Shrenik that good karma cannot be transferred or purchased; it must be earned personally through one's own righteous actions and spiritual practices. This story highlights the Jain principle that spiritual merit is individually earned and cannot be bought or transferred.