PHP vs. Python/comp.lang.php?

[the Spinning Spider]

I'm finding learning Java is quite a tough challenge, like wading through a
swamp.  So I'm exploring PHP and Python as possible alternatives.

I notice there doesn't seem to be much mention about PHP by Python people
whenever they mention other languages,
e.g.,see http://www.python.org/doc/Comparisons.html.

Or is it because PHP is incomparable against Python?

Could it be the news servers I have access to, or is there no comp.lang.php
newsgroup?  Is PHP too insignificant?

Will Python be too intellectually challenging, like Java?