In Jainism, the term "vathaya punya" (also spelled "vāthāya puṇya") refers to a type of merit (puṇya) acquired suddenly or unexpectedly, often as a result of a past good deed whose fruit ripens unexpectedly and brings about sudden positive circumstances or benefits.

A well-known example from Jain texts is the story of Shrenik (also known as King Shrenik or Bimbisara), who acquired vathaya punya. According to Jain tradition, King Shrenik once offered food to monks out of sudden compassion and without prior planning. This act of spontaneous charity resulted in him acquiring vathaya punya, which led to unexpected prosperity and happiness in his life.

Thus, King Shrenik is a prominent example of a person who acquired vathaya punya suddenly in Jain narratives.