CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (UNAUDITED) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings (loss)	$ 1,459	$ 1,071	$ 1,146	$ 2,823	$ 506	$ 1,490	$ 4,286
Other comprehensive income (loss) net of income taxes:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(21)	(5)	14	4
Change in unrealized gains (losses), net of reclassification adjustment	314	625	458	1,405
Changes in defined benefit plan related items not yet recognized in periodic benefit cost, net of reclassification adjustment	1	0	1	0
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of income taxes	294	620	473	1,409
Comprehensive income (loss)	1,753	1,691	1,619	4,232	268	580	5,211
Less: Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	(93)	(88)	(218)	(208)	(479)	(388)	(358)
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to AXA Equitable	$ 1,660	$ 1,603	$ 1,401	$ 4,024	$ (211)	$ 192	$ 4,853