Creed is carrying timber (6)

I believe the answer is:

ideals

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'creed is carrying timber' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'is carrying timber' is the wordplay.
'carrying' is an insertion indicator.
'timber' becomes 'deal' (deal is a kind of timber).
'is' going around 'deal' is 'IDEALS'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for ideals that I've seen before include "Standards to be aimed at" , "Moral value" , "Models of perfection" , "Highest standards, model objectives" , "They're perfect" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.