Not trying to be contentious either. Just sharing what I have learned.

It is not my intent to be contentious about such things. I would not have commented at all had I not made mention of the etymology of the word "carnival" in a number of my previous posts. It may sow confusion to some readers to have a definition given that is quite the opposite of what has been previously presented.

If you use the search field at the top of the blog and look for the words "carnival" and "flesh raising" you will find a number of blog posts that have made reference to this previously.

I tend to favor the origin of the word meaning "flesh raising." If you have ever attended a carnival at a fair, you know that the show is all about titillation and thrills. This appeals to the flesh. Rather than being an end to the flesh, a carnival is designed to sate the flesh.

This understanding is consistent whether one takes a cruise on a Carnival ship, or whether one attends Carnival in New Orleans. They are all focused on the elevating of the flesh's desires, and offer many (often immoral and illicit) means to satisfy the flesh.

The mention of the word "Carnival" in this thread began with a sister's mention of a fire on a Carnival cruise ship. I would ask what is more appropriate as an understanding of the word in this association. Does Carnival Cruise Lines sell flesh raising experiences, or flesh ending experiences? I think one would have to conclude that Carnival is promoting the flesh, rather than denying it.

I did not assume you were Catholic.

May you be blessed with peace and understanding in these days.

The etymology of carnival is questionable. It all boild down to whiat one wishes to believe. Does the "val" part come from the latin "vale" meaning "fairwell"of "levare" meaning "raise". Seems to be that the more likely is "vale".

But it is like statistics.

I find the definition and application of the word "Carnival" you have provided to be the opposite of truth. According to many etymology sources, such as the Online Etymology Dictionary, the world literally means "flesh raising."

Carnival: literally "raising flesh," from Latin caro "flesh" (see carnage) + levare "lighten, raise…
[Source: Online Etymology Dictionary]

The name has come to be associated with Catholicism, but it actually precedes Lent, and is not part of Lent. Carnival is quite the opposite. It is an orgy of sensuality and "carnality." Just go to New Orleans, Rio DeJaneiro, or other major world forums that celebrate Carnival and you will find that they are all about raising the flesh, elevating the sating of every fleshly desire to heights of wickedness.

Carnival Cruise Lines are also about sating the flesh. Cruise lines are renowned for their sensuality. They have 24 hour buffets, Las Vegas style entertainment. They appeal to people's desires to pursue pleasure, ease, and comfort.

I interpret the numerous cruise line problems as a sign from Yahweh that man's days of unfettered pursuit of pleasure and sensuality are coming to an end as He will unloose judgment upon the earth.

I interpret it as a message from the rulers of the darkness of this world. They are telling us that things are about to change.