Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale, amortized cost (in dollars)	$ 16,756,216	$ 15,586,970
Fixed maturities, held for trading, amortized cost (in dollars)	356,012	134,591
Mortgage loans on real estate, allowances (in dollars)	2,890	21,130
Short-term investments, available-for-sale, amortized cost (in dollars)	$ 266,332	$ 332,764
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Preferred stock, shares authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Common stock, shares authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	7,032,000	7,032,000
Common stock, shares outstanding	7,032,000	7,032,000