CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 1,464	$ 4,420	$ (3,236)
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(25)	(21)	(12)
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment	(881)	969	(1,199)
Changes in defined benefit plan related items not yet recognized in periodic benefit cost, net of reclassification adjustment	(4)	(23)	299
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	(910)	925	(912)
Comprehensive income (loss)	554	5,345	(4,148)
Less: Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(388)	(358)	(345)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to AXA Equitable	$ 166	$ 4,987	$ (4,493)