Evenin' all

[Jollocks]

Wow, plenty here.
Yes, I would say we've evolved past the point of being considered apes. I'm sure I'll expend on that at some point.
Seems you have a fairly good knowledge of Judaism, which I don't find much around the internet. So I assume you're already familiar with the adage, "ask two Jews, get three opinions".
It's true, proselytizing is illegal under Jewish law, I'm in fact traditionally Rabbis would turn away and dissuade converts three times to ensure they were doing so of their own choice, rather than due to missionaries.
And yes, it's perfectly possible to be a Jewish atheist, as the emphasis on Judaism is on actions rather than beliefs. And the afterlife doesn't seem to take up much of a Jew's day either, as the emphasis is also on life on Earth rather than life after death.
I suppose really, Sacks' (former Chief Rabbi) definition of the Torah works best: philosophy through story. We are often obsessed with use of language and academic pursuits, which I think is mainly a cultural phenomenon. And of course, scepticism (surprisingly to many), which is part of the rules regarding raising children, teaching them to question things and be sure in their mind their reasoning is correct for them. That's probably why we disagree on so much.

As for definitions of deities: I suppose that's another example why there's a lot of debate. Obviously looking for proofs or such like is a very "un-Jewish" thing to do. Mainly because it's not really a question that bothers us an awful lot - again the focus is more on actions than beliefs, life rather than death, and relationships. The closest anyone really comes is the thirteen principles of faith, and Jews often argue if some or all of them are even necessary!

Anyhow welcome.  If you decide to open a thread for discussing/clarifying aspects of Judaism I'd welcome the opportunity.  I'd also like to follow up on your reasons for removing man from the greater apes classification.  I assume you have no problem with man's place on the tree of life.  But I'll quit trying to grill you here and just leave you with some welcoming treats.

I'm sureIshall at some point. Cheers!