Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
Fixed maturities, available-for-sale, amortized cost (in dollars)	$ 15,509,373	$ 16,756,216
Fixed maturities, held for trading, amortized cost (in dollars)	265,198	356,012
Mortgage loans on real estate, allowances (in dollars)	2,890	2,890
Short-term investments, available-for-sale, amortized cost (in dollars)	$ 2,260,710	$ 266,332
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