In Rinzai Zen, the emphasis is placed on koan practice and sudden awakening as a means to achieve enlightenment. However, this does not necessarily mean that sudden awakening is the only way to attain enlightenment in Rinzai Zen.

Sudden awakening, or satori, is often described as a moment of sudden realization or enlightenment, where one's mind is freed from all attachments and delusions. This experience is often associated with the use of koans, which are paradoxical or nonsensical statements or questions given by a Zen master to their student. The purpose of koan practice is to break the student's habitual way of thinking and to push them beyond their conceptual understanding of reality.

While sudden awakening is highly valued in Rinzai Zen, it is not the only path to enlightenment. In fact, many Zen masters have emphasized that satori is just one part of the journey towards enlightenment. The practice of zazen, or seated meditation, is also an important aspect of Rinzai Zen and can lead to gradual awakening and understanding.

Furthermore, Rinzai Zen also places importance on the integration of satori into one's daily life. It is not enough to have a moment of sudden awakening, but it is crucial to continue the practice and incorporate it into one's actions and interactions with others. This is known as "living Zen" and is seen as a way to deepen one's understanding and realization of enlightenment.

It is also worth noting that not all practitioners in Rinzai Zen will have a sudden awakening experience. Each individual's journey towards enlightenment is unique and may involve different experiences and realizations. Some may have a gradual awakening, while others may have a sudden one. What is important is the continuous practice and dedication to the teachings of Rinzai Zen.

In conclusion, while sudden awakening is highly valued in Rinzai Zen, it is not the only way to achieve enlightenment. The emphasis on koan practice and sudden awakening is just one aspect of the multifaceted approach to attaining enlightenment in Rinzai Zen. Ultimately, the goal is to live a life of mindfulness and awareness, integrating the teachings into every aspect of one's being.