The answer is: He was illegitimate and his brothers drove him out

Judges 11:1-3

The story of Jephthah is a captivating tale that highlights both human conflict and the complexities of community dynamics in ancient Israel. Jephthah was the son of a Gileadite and a harlot, which placed him in a tough position within his societal structure. Illegitimacy was not easily accepted during this time, leading his legit siblings to reject him and push him to flee.

He departed to Tob, a location that may not ring bells for all but was significant enough for Jephthah to earn a reputation as a reckless warrior amongst disaffected itinerants—all kinds of `bold but lost souls.` Isn’t it fascinating how sometimes rejected individuals can rise from obscurity to underscore their value? This town of Tob turned out to be more than just a refuge; it laid the groundwork for Jephthah's unexpected calling.

In lore, Tob is considered to be near the Transjordan region, and legend helps internalize that even the marginalized can emerge as leaders. The narrative echoes throughout the Bible, echoing tales of David, who, like Jephthah, had to rise from challenging origins before achieving greatness.

This resonant experience illustrates basic concepts of acceptance, strain within families, and redemption. It's a spirited reminder that one's background doesn't define one's ultimate path; even a banished son can lead armies and set a new trajectory for a nation. Such stories remind us that what seems like adversity can serve as a backdrop for extraordinary possibility!