CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 1,061	$ (1,025)	$ 2,781	$ (171)
Other comprehensive income (loss) net of income taxes:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(5)	4	4	(8)
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment	625	(1,020)	1,405	(681)
Changes in defined benefit plan related items not yet recognized in periodic benefit cost, net of reclassification adjustment	0	20	0	39
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	620	(996)	1,409	(650)
Comprehensive income (loss)	1,681	(2,021)	4,190	(821)
Less: Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(89)	(110)	(209)	(196)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to AXA Equitable	$ 1,592	$ (2,131)	$ 3,981	$ (1,017)