New to Java

Hello,

I have made a thread on here once before, but I am still a little stuck.

I am new to Java, in other words - I know just about nothing regarding it. A friend of mine, who is into Java and game design himself, told me to try again here in the forums.

For starters, I am not sure how Java Developing works. I am wanting to try my hand at creating a Java 3D Game. I was told the last time I made a thread here that I need a Compiler and a Editor. With that being said, I looked up a bit more threw the websites he gave me, yet I am still lost on what I need exactly.

Like I said, I am really new at this. I am sorry to be a bother, but I don't see anywhere else that has a running forum.

What I am really wanting to know is this:

1) What is a Compiler and what does it do?
a) Do I just need one program for a Compiler, or are there a few programs needed within it? I am asking this because I have been told both ways. That a Compiler is a single program and also it's a few programs to make up what I need.
b) If it's one program only, could you please name a few good program names?
c) If it's more than one program needed to make up a Compiler, could you please tell me what it is exactly I am going to need? Perhaps listing some recommended programs.

2) Will I need more than one program to design each area in my game? Such as the people, objects and landscapes? Or is there one program as a whole that will accommodate my needs? If so, name a few please.

3) I can't seem to find any true websites for beginners. I have found some decent websites and was given a few from someone on here, but those are still a bit too advanced for my knowledge of Java Development. A link or two would be great if anyone knows of any true beginner websites.

I basically need to know all the programs needed to create a 3D Java game. Just telling me what I need might not help much. A list of all the programs I need would be very helpful.

Once again, I am sorry about the questions. I am really interested in creating a 3D Java based game, but I need to learn the basics still.

Thank you very much in advance.