CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
Fixed maturities, amortized cost	$ 27,004,436	$ 26,661,310
Fixed maturities, fair value	341,797	319,163
Equity securities, cost	445,376	371,827
Mortgage loans, securitizations	675,805	765,520
Investment real estate, accumulated depreciation	887	771
Accounts and premiums receivable, allowance for uncollectible amounts	4,259	4,191
Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation	108,799	103,625
Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Preferred Stock, shares authorized (in shares)	2,000	2,000
Preferred Stock, Liquidation preference	2,000	2,000
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Common Stock, shares authorized (in shares)	5,000,000	5,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued (in shares)	5,000,000	5,000,000
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments, income tax	328,313	979,251
Net unrealized (losses) gains relating to other-than-temporary impaired investments for which a portion has been recognized in earnings, income tax	(764)	(2,147)
Accumulated loss - derivatives, income tax	$ (1,361)	$ (1,883)