Brabeion (βραβεῖον) refers to the prize or award given to the winner of an athletic contest — in the Greek world, typically a wreath. Paul uses this athletic metaphor to describe the reward awaiting the believer who runs the race of faith with discipline and perseverance. The prize is not earned by merit but pursued with wholeheartedness.
Paul's use of athletic imagery (1 Corinthians 9:24; Philippians 3:14) communicates the urgency and intentionality with which Christians should pursue their calling. The "upward call of God in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:14) is the brabeion — not a golden crown by human achievement but the fulfillment of God's purpose for us. The race metaphor insists on discipline, endurance, and keeping one's eyes on the goal.