Do I need Java to run/install Minecraft mods and/or Minecraft Forge?

I am trying to figure out how to download and run Minecraft mods. I know I have to first load Minecraft Forge. I am wondering if I have to have Java to do this?? I do not have Java on my computer and would like to keep it that way if at all possible. I am running Windows 8.1 and have Minecraft 1.8.4.

Yes you need java in order to use forge. There is also another conflict with your question. Java is required to play Minecraft itself. So if you're playing Minecraft you have java. Here are the requirements for Minecraft.
Minecraft Minimum Requirements
Minimum Requirements:

• CPU: Intel Pentium D or AMD Athlon 64 (K8) 2.6 GHz
• RAM: 2GB
• GPU (Integrated): Intel HD Graphics or AMD (formerly ATI) Radeon HD Graphics with OpenGL 2.1.
• GPU (Discrete): Nvidia GeForce 9600 GT or AMD Radeon HD 2400 with OpenGL 3.1.
• HDD: At least 200MB for Game Core and Other Files.
• Java 6 Release 45