CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
Fixed maturities, amortized cost	$ 26,430,236	$ 26,109,131
Equity securities, cost	319,508	303,578
Mortgage loans, securitizations	805,575	858,139
Investment real estate, accumulated depreciation	1,079	993
Accounts and premiums receivable, allowance for uncollectible amounts	3,998	3,864
Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation	135,713	132,579
Preferred Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Preferred Stock, shares authorized (in shares)	2,000	2,000
Preferred Stock, Liquidation preference	2	2
Common Stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Common Stock, shares authorized (in shares)	5,000,000	5,000,000
Common Stock, shares issued (in shares)	5,000,000	5,000,000
Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments, income tax	766,727	590,196
Net unrealized losses relating to other-than-temporary impaired investments for which a portion has been recognized in earnings, income tax	(15,440)	(18,374)
Accumulated loss - derivatives, income tax	$ (3,139)	$ (4,111)