INVESTMENTS - Information Regarding Changes in Unrealized Gains and Losses from Investments (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Changes in unrealized gains (losses):
Changes in unrealized gains (losses)	$ 2,157	$ 1,721	$ 1,068
Fixed maturities | Available-for-sale Securities
Changes in unrealized gains (losses):
Changes in unrealized gains (losses)	1,624	1,963	1,105
Fixed maturities | Transferred to Held to Maturity Securities
Changes in unrealized gains (losses):
Changes in unrealized gains (losses)	(14)	(101)	(12)
Perpetual securities | Available-for-sale Securities
Changes in unrealized gains (losses):
Changes in unrealized gains (losses)	547	(143)	(24)
Equity securities
Changes in unrealized gains (losses):
Changes in unrealized gains (losses)	$ 0	$ 2	$ (1)