Everest (EG) 10-K 2 Mar 15 2014 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Feb. 01, 2015	Jun. 30, 2014
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Dec-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Entity Registrant Name	EVEREST RE GROUP LTD
Entity Central Index Key	1095073
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		44,473,459
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Public Float			$7,332,951

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
ASSETS:
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value (amortized cost: 2014, $12,831,159; 2013, $12,391,164)	$13,101,067	$12,636,907
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at fair value	1,509	19,388
Equity securities - available for sale, at market value (cost: 2014, $148,326; 2013, $148,342)	140,210	144,081
Equity securities - available for sale, at fair value	1,447,820	1,462,079
Short-term investments	1,705,932	1,214,199
Other invested assets (cost: 2014, $601,925; 2013, $508,447)	601,925	508,447
Cash	437,474	611,382
Total investments and cash	17,435,937	16,596,483
Accrued investment income	111,075	119,058
Premiums receivable	1,397,983	1,453,114
Reinsurance receivables	670,854	540,883
Funds held by reinsureds	228,192	228,000
Deferred acquisition costs	398,408	363,721
Prepaid reinsurance premiums	154,177	81,779
Income taxes	184,762	178,334
Other assets	236,436	246,664
TOTAL ASSETS	20,817,824	19,808,036
LIABILITIES:
Reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses	9,720,813	9,673,240
Future policy benefit reserve	59,820	59,512
Unearned premium reserve	1,728,745	1,579,945
Funds held under reinsurance treaties	3,932	2,692
Commission reserves	87,990	66,160
Other net payable to reinsurers	139,841	116,387
Losses in course of payment	157,527	332,631
6.6% Long term notes due 5/1/2067	238,364	238,361
Accrued interest on debt and borrowings	3,537	4,781
Equity index put option liability	47,022	35,423
Unsettled securities payable	41,092	53,867
Other liabilities	316,469	333,425
Total liabilities	12,945,152	12,746,382
NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS:
Redeemable noncontrolling interest - Mt. Logan Re	421,552	93,378
Commitments and contingencies (Note 17)
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Preferred shares, par value: $0.01; 50,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding
Common shares, par value: $0.01; 200,000 shares authorized; (2014) 68,336 and (2013) 67,965 outstanding before treasury shares	683	680
Additional paid-in capital	2,068,807	2,029,774
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income tax expense (benefit) of $20,715 at 2014 and $57,661 at 2013	48,317	157,728
Treasury shares, at cost; 23,650 shares (2014) and 20,422 shares (2013)	-2,485,897	-1,985,873
Retained earnings	7,819,210	6,765,967
Total shareholders' equity attributable to Everest Re Group	7,451,120	6,968,276
TOTAL LIABILITIES, NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	20,817,824	19,808,036
Senior Notes [Member] | 4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044 [Member]
LIABILITIES:
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044	400,000
Senior Notes [Member] | 5.4% Senior notes due 10/15/2014 [Member]
LIABILITIES:
5.4% Senior notes due 10/15/2014		$249,958

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value, amortized cost	$12,831,159	$12,391,164
Equity securities - available for sale, at market value, cost	148,326	148,342
Other invested assets, at cost	601,925	508,447
Preferred shares, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred shares, authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred shares, issued	0	0
Preferred shares, outstanding	0	0
Common shares, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common shares, authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common shares, outstanding	68,336,000	67,965,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income tax expense (benefit)	$20,715	$57,661
Treasury shares	23,650,000	20,422,000
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	6.60%	6.60%
Debt instrument, maturity date	1-May-67	1-May-67
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044 [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	4.87%	0.00%
Debt instrument, maturity date	1-Jun-44	1-Jun-44
5.4% Senior notes due 10/15/2014 [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	5.40%	5.40%
Debt instrument, maturity date	15-Oct-14	15-Oct-14

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Ope

Consolidated Statements Of Operations And Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
REVENUES:
Premiums earned	$5,169,135	$4,753,543	$4,164,628
Net investment income	530,570	548,509	600,202
Net realized capital gains (losses):
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities	-39,502	-1,052	-10,022
Other-than-temporary impairments on fixed maturity securities transferred to other comprehensive income (loss)
Other net realized capital gains (losses)	123,548	301,279	174,422
Total net realized capital gains (losses)	84,046	300,227	164,400
Net derivative gain (loss)	-11,599	44,044	-9,738
Other income (expense)	18,437	-5,487	3,318
Total revenues	5,790,589	5,640,836	4,922,810
CLAIMS AND EXPENSES:
Incurred losses and loss adjustment expenses	2,906,534	2,800,251	2,745,265
Commission, brokerage, taxes and fees	1,135,586	977,558	952,701
Other underwriting expenses	240,400	237,126	207,659
Corporate expenses	23,421	24,817	23,976
Interest, fees and bond issue cost amortization expense	38,533	46,118	53,683
Total claims and expenses	4,344,474	4,085,870	3,983,284
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES	1,446,115	1,554,966	939,526
Income tax expense (benefit)	187,652	289,706	110,572
NET INCOME (LOSS)	1,258,463	1,265,260	828,954
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	-59,307	-5,878
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO EVEREST RE GROUP	1,199,156	1,259,382	828,954
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax :
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities arising during the period	704	-395,797	174,025
Reclassification adjustment for realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)	21,392	-6,977	-19,676
Total URA(D) on securities arising during the period	22,096	-402,774	154,349
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-95,417	-162	22,698
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss) for the period	-39,110	17,837	-11,771
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of net (gain) loss included in net income (loss)	3,020	5,778	4,795
Total benefit plan net gain (loss) for the period	-36,090	23,615	-6,976
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	-109,411	-379,321	170,071
Other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax attributable to Everest Re Group	-109,411	-379,321	170,071
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)	$1,089,745	$880,061	$999,025
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE ATTRIBUTABLE TO EVEREST RE GROUP:
Basic	$26.16	$25.67	$15.85
Diluted	$25.91	$25.44	$15.79
Dividends declared	$3.20	$2.19	$1.92

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Cha

Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Shareholders' Equity (USD $)	Common Shares [Member]	Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Of Deferred Income Taxes [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Treasury Shares At Cost [Member]	Total
In Thousands, except Share data
Balance, beginning of period at Dec. 31, 2011	$665	$1,892,988	$366,978	$4,884,714	($1,073,970)
Balance, beginning of period, shares at Dec. 31, 2011	53,735,551
Issued during the period, shares	650,836
Treasury shares acquired, shares	-2,968,425					-148,962
Issued during the period, net	6
Share-based compensation plans		53,451
Net increase (decrease) during the period			170,071			170,071
Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group				828,954		828,954
Dividends declared ($3.20 per share in 2014, $2.19 per share in 2013 and $1.92 per share in 2012)				-100,402		-100,402
Purchase of treasury shares					-289,988
Balance, end of period at Dec. 31, 2012	671	1,946,439	537,049	5,613,266	-1,363,958	6,733,467
Balance, end of period, shares at Dec. 31, 2012	51,417,962
Issued during the period, shares	859,275
Treasury shares acquired, shares	-4,734,105					-94,014
Issued during the period, net	9
Share-based compensation plans		83,335
Net increase (decrease) during the period			-379,321			-379,321
Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group				1,259,382		1,259,382
Dividends declared ($3.20 per share in 2014, $2.19 per share in 2013 and $1.92 per share in 2012)				-106,681		-106,681
Purchase of treasury shares					-621,915
Balance, end of period at Dec. 31, 2013	680	2,029,774	157,728	6,765,967	-1,985,873	6,968,276
Balance, end of period, shares at Dec. 31, 2013	47,543,132					67,965,000
Issued during the period, shares	371,359
Treasury shares acquired, shares	-3,228,854					-55,756
Issued during the period, net	3
Share-based compensation plans		39,033
Net increase (decrease) during the period			-109,411			-109,411
Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group				1,199,156		1,199,156
Dividends declared ($3.20 per share in 2014, $2.19 per share in 2013 and $1.92 per share in 2012)				-145,913		-145,913
Purchase of treasury shares					-500,024
Balance, end of period at Dec. 31, 2014	$683	$2,068,807	$48,317	$7,819,210	($2,485,897)	$7,451,120
Balance, end of period, shares at Dec. 31, 2014	44,685,637					68,336,000

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Cha1

Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Shareholders' Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Consolidated Statements Of Changes In Shareholders' Equity [Abstract]
Dividends declared	$3.20	$2.19	$1.92

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Cas

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)	$1,258,463	$1,265,260	$828,954
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Decrease (increase) in premiums receivable	45,282	-217,678	-153,694
Decrease (increase) in funds held by reinsureds, net	-1,835	162	42,298
Decrease (increase) in reinsurance receivables	-186,014	118,963	-55,274
Decrease (increase) in income taxes	31,340	213,848	38,078
Decrease (increase) in prepaid reinsurance premiums	-79,086	-12,777	16,358
Increase (decrease) in reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses	195,524	-374,027	-169,595
Increase (decrease) in future policy benefit reserve	308	-6,595	-1,080
Increase (decrease) in unearned premiums	161,149	261,959	-98,418
Increase (decrease) in other net payable to reinsurers	29,410	-45,043	100,566
Increase (decrease) in losses in course of payment	-174,206	142,192	173,232
Change in equity adjustments in limited partnerships	-39,464	-45,905	-63,779
Distribution of limited partnership income	51,120	56,982	30,718
Change in other assets and liabilities, net	35,419	-57,212	76,788
Non-cash compensation expense	21,197	31,844	31,984
Amortization of bond premium (accrual of bond discount)	49,214	66,461	61,844
Amortization of underwriting discount on senior notes	46	54	52
Net realized capital (gains) losses	-84,046	-300,227	-164,400
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	1,313,821	1,098,261	694,632
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Proceeds from fixed maturities matured/called - available for sale, at market value	2,142,693	2,415,730	1,830,582
Proceeds from fixed maturities matured/called - available for sale, at fair value	875	7,213	1,300
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at market value	1,811,801	1,092,387	913,139
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at fair value	36,467	21,573	84,917
Proceeds from equity securities sold - available for sale, at market value	16,901	46,142	280,807
Proceeds from equity securities sold - available for sale, at fair value	584,069	705,831	558,740
Distributions from other invested assets	115,482	100,081	53,736
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at market value	-4,672,633	-3,543,776	-3,328,409
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at fair value	-24,098	-6,196	-7,955
Cost of equity securities acquired - available for sale, at market value	-18,016	-59,756	-26,571
Cost of equity securities acquired - available for sale, at fair value	-446,457	-621,038	-426,507
Cost of other invested assets acquired	-224,740	-21,935	-58,369
Net change in short-term investments	-497,983	-357,451	-175,043
Net change in unsettled securities transactions	-4,433	-2,808	35,085
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-1,180,072	-224,003	-264,548
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Common shares issued during the period, net	17,839	51,500	21,473
Purchase of treasury shares	-500,024	-621,915	-289,988
Net cost of junior subordinated debt securities redemption		-329,897
Net cost of senior notes maturing	-250,000
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes	400,000
Third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest	136,200	87,500
Subscription advances for third party redeemable noncontrolling interest	40,000	143,000
Dividends paid to shareholders	-145,913	-106,681	-100,402
Dividends paid on third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest	-10,334
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	-312,232	-776,493	-368,917
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH	4,575	-23,433	27,232
Net increase (decrease) in cash	-173,908	74,332	88,399
Cash, beginning of period	611,382	537,050	448,651
Cash, end of period	437,474	611,382	537,050
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Income taxes paid (recovered)	153,455	69,302	59,754
Interest paid	39,424	38,390	53,008
Non-cash transaction:
Conversion of equity securities - available for sale, at market value, to fixed maturity securities - available for sale, at market value, including accrued interest at time of conversion			$92,981

Summary_Of_Significant_Account

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies	1.SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	A.Business and Basis of Presentation.
	Everest Re Group, Ltd. (Group), a Bermuda company, through its subsidiaries, principally provides reinsurance and insurance in the U.S., Bermuda and international markets.As used in this document, Company means Group and its subsidiaries.
	Effective February 27, 2013, the Company established a new subsidiary, Mt. Logan Re Ltd. (Mt. Logan Re) and effective July 1, 2013, Mt. Logan Re established separate segregated accounts and issued non-voting redeemable preferred shares to capitalize the segregated accounts.Accordingly, the financial position and operating results for Mt. Logan Re are consolidated with the Company and the non-controlling interests in Mt. Logan Res operating results and equity are presented as separate captions in the Companys financial statements.
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP").  The statements include all of the following domestic and foreign direct and indirect subsidiaries of Group:  Everest International Reinsurance, Ltd. ("Everest International"), Everest Global Services, Inc. ("Global Services"), Mt. Logan Re, Ltd., Everest Reinsurance (Bermuda), Ltd. ("Bermuda Re"), Everest Re Advisors, Ltd., Everest Advisors (UK), Ltd., Everest Underwriting Group (Ireland), Limited ("Holdings Ireland"), Everest Reinsurance Company (Ireland) Limited ("Ireland Re"), Everest Insurance Company of Canada ("Everest Canada"), Premiere Insurance Underwriting Services ("Premiere"), Everest Reinsurance Holdings, Inc. ("Holdings"), Heartland Crop Insurance, Inc. ("Heartland"), Specialty Insurance Group, Inc. ("Specialty"), Specialty Insurance Group - Leisure and Entertainment Risk Purchasing Group LLC ("Specialty RPG"), Mt. McKinley Insurance Company ("Mt. McKinley"), Mt. McKinley Managers, L.L.C., Workcare Southeast, Inc., Workcare Southeast of Georgia, Inc., Everest Reinsurance Company ("Everest Re"), Everest National Insurance Company ("Everest National"), Everest Reinsurance Company Ltda. (Brazil), Mt. Whitney Securities, Inc., Everest Indemnity Insurance Company ("Everest Indemnity") and Everest Security Insurance Company ("Everest Security").  All amounts are reported in U.S. dollars.
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities (and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities) at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Ultimate actual results could differ, possibly materially, from those estimates.
	All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
	Certain reclassifications and format changes have been made to prior years' amounts to conform to the 2014 presentation.  One reclassification relates to a correction in the manner in which the Company reports distributions received from limited partnership investments in the consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.  Prior to the fourth quarter of 2013, the Company incorrectly reflected all distributions as cash flows from investing activities in its Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.  Starting with the fourth quarter of 2013, cash distributions from the limited partnerships that represent net investment income are reflected as cash flows from operating activities and distributions that represent the return of capital contributions are reflected as cash flows from investing activities.  For the year ended December 31, 2012, $30,718 thousand has been reclassified from "Distributions from other invested assets" included in cash flows  from investing activities to "Distribution of limited partnership income" included in cash flows from operations.  The Company has determined that this error is not material to the financial statements of any prior period.
	B.Investments.
	Fixed maturity and equity security investments available for sale, at market value, reflect unrealized appreciation and depreciation, as a result of temporary changes in market value during the period, in shareholders equity, net of income taxes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the consolidated balance sheets.Fixed maturity and equity securities carried at fair value reflect fair value re-measurements as net realized capital gains and losses in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). The Company records changes in fair value for its fixed maturities available for sale, at market value through shareholders equity, net of taxes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) since cash flows from these investments will be primarily used to settle its reserve for losses and loss adjustment expense liabilities. The Company anticipates holding these investments for an extended period as the cash flow from interest and maturities will fund the projected payout of these liabilities. Fixed maturities carried at fair value represent a portfolio of convertible bond securities, which have characteristics similar to equity securities and at times, designated foreign denominated fixed maturity securities, which will be used to settle loss and loss adjustment reserves in the same currency.The Company carries all of its equity securities at fair value except for mutual fund investments whose underlying investments are comprised of fixed maturity securities. For equity securities, available for sale, at fair value, the Company reflects changes in value as net realized capital gains and losses since these securities may be sold in the near term depending on financial market conditions.Interest income on all fixed maturities and dividend income on all equity securities are included as part of net investment income in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). Unrealized losses on fixed maturities, which are deemed other-than-temporary and related to the credit quality of a security, are charged to net income (loss) as net realized capital losses.Short-term investments are stated at cost, which approximates market value. Realized gains or losses on sales of investments are determined on the basis of identified cost. For non-publicly traded securities, market prices are determined through the use of pricing models that evaluate securities relative to the U.S. Treasury yield curve, taking into account the issue type, credit quality, and cash flow characteristics of each security.For publicly traded securities, market value is based on quoted market prices or valuation models that use observable market inputs. When a sector of the financial markets is inactive or illiquid, the Company may use its own assumptions about future cash flows and risk-adjusted discount rates to determine fair value. Retrospective adjustments are employed to recalculate the values of asset-backed securities. Each acquisition lot is reviewed to recalculate the effective yield. The recalculated effective yield is used to derive a book value as if the new yield were applied at the time of acquisition.Outstanding principal factors from the time of acquisition to the adjustment date are used to calculate the prepayment history for all applicable securities. Conditional prepayment rates, computed with life to date factor histories and weighted average maturities, are used to effect the calculation of projected and prepayments for pass-through security types. Other invested assets include limited partnerships and rabbi trusts. Limited partnerships are accounted for under the equity method of accounting, which can be recorded on a monthly or quarterly lag.
	C.Uncollectible Receivable Balances.
	The Company provides reserves for uncollectible reinsurance recoverable and premium receivable balances based on managements assessment of the collectability of the outstanding balances.Such reserves are presented in the table below for the periods indicated.
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014				2013
	Reinsurance receivables and premium receivables		$	29,497			$	29,905
	D.Deferred Acquisition Costs.
	Acquisition costs, consisting principally of commissions and brokerage expenses and certain premium taxes and fees incurred at the time a contract or policy is issued and that vary with and are directly related to the Companys reinsurance and insurance business, are deferred and amortized over the period in which the related premiums are earned.Deferred acquisition costs are limited to their estimated realizable value by line of business based on the related unearned premiums, anticipated claims and claim expenses and anticipated investment income.Deferred acquisition costs amortized to income are presented in the table below for the periods indicated.
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014				2013				2012
	Deferred acquisition costs		$	1,135,586			$	977,558			$	952,701
	E.Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses.
	The reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses (LAE) is based on individual case estimates and reports received from ceding companies.A provision is included for losses and LAE incurred but not reported (IBNR) based on past experience.A provision is also included for certain potential liabilities relating to asbestos and environmental (A&E) exposures, which liabilities cannot be estimated using traditional reserving techniques.See also Note 3.The reserves are reviewed periodically and any changes in estimates are reflected in earnings in the period the adjustment is made.The Companys loss and LAE reserves represent managements best estimate of the ultimate liability.Loss and LAE reserves are presented gross of reinsurance receivables and incurred losses and LAE are presented net of reinsurance.
	Accruals for commissions are established for reinsurance contracts that provide for the stated commission percentage to increase or decrease based on the loss experience of the contract.Changes in estimates for such arrangements are recorded as commission expense.Commission accruals for contracts with adjustable features are estimated based on expected loss and LAE.
	F.Future Policy Benefit Reserve.
	Liabilities for future policy benefits on annuity policies are carried at their accumulated values.Reserves for policy benefits include mortality claims in the process of settlement and IBNR claims.Actual experience in a particular period may fluctuate from expected results.
	G.Premium Revenues.
	Written premiums are earned ratably over the periods of the related insurance and reinsurance contracts.Unearned premium reserves are established relative to the unexpired contract period.Such reserves are established based upon reports received from ceding companies or estimated using pro rata methods based on statistical data.Reinstatement premiums represent additional premium received on reinsurance coverages, most prevalently catastrophe related, when limits have been depleted under the original reinsurance contract and additional coverage is granted.Written and earned premiums and the related costs, which have not yet been reported to the Company, are estimated and accrued.Premiums are net of ceded reinsurance.
	Payout annuity premiums are recognized as revenue over the premium-paying period of the policies.
	H.Prepaid Reinsurance Premiums.
	Prepaid reinsurance premiums represent unearned premium reserves ceded to other reinsurers.Prepaid reinsurance premiums for any foreign reinsurers comprising more than 10% of the outstanding balance at December 31, 2014 were secured either through collateralized trust arrangements, rights of offset or letters of credit, thereby limiting the credit risk to the Company.
	I.Income Taxes.
	Holdings and its wholly-owned subsidiaries file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return.Foreign branches of subsidiaries file local tax returns as required.Group and subsidiaries not included in Holdings consolidated tax return file separate company U.S. federal income tax returns as required.Holdings Ireland files an Irish income tax return.The UK branch of Bermuda Re files a UK income tax return.Deferred income taxes have been recorded to recognize the tax effect of temporary differences between the financial reporting and income tax bases of assets and liabilities, which arise because of differences between GAAP and income tax accounting rules.
	J.Foreign Currency.
	Assets and liabilities relating to foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date; revenues and expenses are translated into U.S. dollars using average exchange rates in effect during the reporting period.Gains and losses resulting from translating foreign currency financial statements, net of deferred income taxes, are excluded from net income (loss) and accumulated in shareholders equity.Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions, other than debt securities available for sale, are recorded through the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) in other income (expense).Gains and losses resulting from changes in the foreign currency exchange rates on debt securities, available for sale at market value, are recorded in the consolidated balance sheets in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) and any losses which are deemed other-than-temporary are charged to net income (loss) as net realized capital loss.
	K.Earnings Per Common Share.
	Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding.Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution that would occur if options granted under various share-based compensation plans were exercised resulting in the issuance of common shares that would participate in the earnings of the entity.
	Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group per common share has been computed as per below, based upon weighted average common basic and dilutive shares outstanding.
				Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)			2014				2013				2012
	Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group per share:
		Numerator
		Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group		$	1,199,156			$	1,259,382			$	828,954
		Less:  dividends declared-common shares and nonvested common shares			(145,913	)			(106,681	)			(100,402	)
		Undistributed earnings			1,053,243				1,152,701				728,552
		Percentage allocated to common shareholders (1)			99	%			99.1	%			99.2	%
					1,042,423				1,142,386				722,717
		Add:  dividends declared-common shareholders			144,447				105,689				99,576
		Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share		$	1,186,870			$	1,248,075			$	822,293
		Denominator
		Denominator for basic earnings per weighted-average common shares			45,377				48,619				51,894
		Effect of dilutive securities:
		Options			425				437				173
		Denominator for diluted earnings per adjusted weighted-average common shares			45,802				49,056				52,067
		Per common share net income (loss)
		Basic		$	26.16			$	25.67			$	15.85
		Diluted		$	25.91			$	25.44			$	15.79
	-1	Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding			45,377				48,619				51,894
		Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding and nonvested common shares expected to vest			45,848				49,058				52,313
		Percentage allocated to common shareholders			99	%			99.1	%			99.2	%
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
	The table below presents the options to purchase common shares that were outstanding, but were not included in the computation of earnings per diluted share as they were anti-dilutive, for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Anti-dilutive options	-		-		894,704
All outstanding options expire on or between September 21, 2015 and September 19, 2022.
L.Segmentation.
The Company, through its subsidiaries, operates in five segments:U.S. Reinsurance, International, Bermuda, Insurance and Mt. Logan Re.See also Note 20.
M.Derivatives.
The Company sold seven equity index put option contracts, based on two indices, in 2001 and 2005, which remain outstanding.The Company sold these equity index put options as insurance products with the intent of achieving a profit.These equity index put option contracts meet the definition of a derivative under FASB guidance and the Companys position in these equity index put option contracts is unhedged.Accordingly, these equity index put option contracts are carried at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets with changes in fair value recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).
The fair value of the equity index put options can be found in the Companys consolidated balance sheets as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)
Derivatives not designated as		Location of fair value		At December 31,
hedging instruments		in balance sheets		2014				2013
Equity index put option contracts		Equity index put option liability		$	47,022			$	35,423
Total				$	47,022			$	35,423
The change in fair value of the equity index put option contracts can be found in the Companys statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)
Derivatives not designated as		Location of gain (loss) in statements of		For the Years Ended December 31,
hedging instruments		operations and comprehensive income (loss)		2014				2013				2012
Equity index put option contracts		Net derivative gain (loss)		$	(11,599	)		$	44,044			$	(9,738	)
Total				$	(11,599	)		$	44,044			$	(9,738	)
N.Deposit Assets and Liabilities.
In the normal course of its operations, the Company may enter into contracts that do not meet risk transfer provisions.Such contracts are accounted for using the deposit accounting method and are included in other liabilities in the Companys consolidated balance sheets.For such contracts, the Company originally records deposit liabilities for an amount equivalent to the assets received.Actuarial studies are used to estimate the final liabilities under such contracts with any change reflected in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).
O.Share-Based Compensation.
Share-based compensation option or restricted share awards are fair valued at the grant date and expensed over the vesting period of the award.The tax benefit on the recorded expense is deferred until the time the award is exercised or vests (becomes unrestricted).See Note 18.
P.Application of Recently Issued Accounting Standard Changes.
Presentation of Comprehensive Income. In June 2011, FASB issued amendments to existing guidance to provide two alternatives for the presentation of comprehensive income. Components of net income and comprehensive income can either be presented within a single, continuous financial statement or be presented in two separate but consecutive financial statements.The Company has chosen to present the components of net income and comprehensive income in a single, continuous financial statement.The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2011.The Company implemented this guidance as of January 1, 2012.In February, 2013, the FASB issued an additional amendment for the presentation of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component.The Company implemented the proposed guidance as of January 1, 2013.
Treatment of Insurance Contract Acquisition Costs. In October 2010, the FASB issued authoritative guidance for the accounting for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts.The guidance identifies the incremental direct costs of contract acquisition and costs directly related to acquisition activities that should be capitalized.This guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2011.The Company implemented this guidance as of January 1, 2012 and determined that $13,492 thousand of previously deferrable acquisition costs would be expensed, including $10,876 thousand and $2,616 thousand expensed in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively.No additional expense will be incurred related to this guidance implementation in future periods.

Investments

Investments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments [Abstract]
Investments	2.  INVESTMENTS
	The amortized cost, market value and gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of available for sale, fixed maturity, equity security investments, carried at market value and other-than-temporary impairments ("OTTI") in accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") are as follows for the periods indicated:
			At December 31, 2014
			Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Market			OTTI in AOCI
	(Dollars in thousands)		Cost			Appreciation			Depreciation			Value			(a)
	Fixed maturity securities
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government agencies and corporations		$	221,052		$	10,290		$	(304	)	$	231,038		$	-
	Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions			783,129			41,969			(626	)		824,472			-
	Corporate securities			4,626,002			143,889			(62,906	)		4,706,985			(6,910	)
	Asset-backed securities			340,761			1,691			(1,230	)		341,222			-
	Mortgage-backed securities
	Commercial			231,439			10,675			(429	)		241,685			-
	Agency residential			2,157,182			37,555			(11,573	)		2,183,164			-
	Non-agency residential			2,734			54			(57	)		2,731			-
	Foreign government securities			1,488,144			71,177			(26,866	)		1,532,455			-
	Foreign corporate securities			2,980,716			109,673			(53,074	)		3,037,315			-
	Total fixed maturity securities		$	12,831,159		$	426,973		$	(157,065	)	$	13,101,067		$	(6,910	)
	Equity securities		$	148,326		$	3,831		$	(11,947	)	$	140,210		$	-
			At December 31, 2013
			Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Market			OTTI in AOCI
	(Dollars in thousands)		Cost			Appreciation			Depreciation			Value			(a)
	Fixed maturity securities
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government agencies and corporations		$	160,013		$	2,690		$	(1,678	)	$	161,025		$	-
	Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions			970,735			40,815			(9,022	)		1,002,528			-
	Corporate securities			3,950,887			155,619			(27,090	)		4,079,416			3,169
	Asset-backed securities			169,980			3,485			(422	)		173,043			-
	Mortgage-backed securities
	Commercial			254,765			16,683			(1,007	)		270,441			-
	Agency residential			2,294,719			34,509			(50,175	)		2,279,053			-
	Non-agency residential			4,816			229			(226	)		4,819			-
	Foreign government securities			1,740,337			69,779			(29,347	)		1,780,769			-
	Foreign corporate securities			2,844,912			86,529			(45,628	)		2,885,813			-
	Total fixed maturity securities		$	12,391,164		$	410,338		$	(164,595	)	$	12,636,907		$	3,169
	Equity securities		$	148,342		$	4,336		$	(8,597	)	$	144,081		$	-
	(a)	Represents the amount of OTTI recognized in AOCI.  Amount includes unrealized gains and losses on impaired securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.
	The amortized cost and market value of fixed maturity securities are shown in the following table by contractual maturity.  Mortgage-backed securities are generally more likely to be prepaid than other fixed maturity securities. As the stated maturity of such securities may not be indicative of actual maturities, the totals for mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities are shown separately.
			At December 31, 2014						At December 31, 2013
			Amortized			Market			Amortized			Market
	(Dollars in thousands)		Cost			Value			Cost			Value
	Fixed maturity securities – available for sale:
	Due in one year or less		$	1,183,247		$	1,189,416		$	1,059,052		$	1,067,799
	Due after one year through five years			5,646,466			5,726,277			5,565,112			5,740,662
	Due after five years through ten years			2,270,073			2,313,672			2,081,908			2,101,234
	Due after ten years			999,257			1,102,900			960,812			999,856
	Asset-backed securities			340,761			341,222			169,980			173,043
	Mortgage-backed securities:
	Commercial			231,439			241,685			254,765			270,441
	Agency residential			2,157,182			2,183,164			2,294,719			2,279,053
	Non-agency residential			2,734			2,731			4,816			4,819
	Total fixed maturity securities		$	12,831,159		$	13,101,067		$	12,391,164		$	12,636,907
	The changes in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) for the Company's investments are derived from the following sources for the periods indicated:
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Increase (decrease) during the period between the market value and cost
	of investments carried at market value, and deferred taxes thereon:
	Fixed maturity securities		$	34,245		$	(449,456	)
	Fixed maturity securities, other-than-temporary impairment			(10,078	)		(1,579	)
	Equity securities			(3,855	)		(16,124	)
	Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax			20,312			(467,159	)
	Deferred tax benefit (expense)			(1,623	)		64,245
	Deferred tax benefit (expense), other-than-temporary impairment			3,407			140
	Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation),
net of deferred taxes, included in shareholders' equity		$	22,096		$	(402,774	)
The Company frequently reviews all of its fixed maturity, available for sale securities for declines in market value and focuses its attention on securities whose fair value has fallen below 80% of their amortized cost at the time of review.  The Company then assesses whether the decline in value is temporary or other-than-temporary.  In making its assessment, the Company evaluates the current market and interest rate environment as well as specific issuer information.  Generally, a change in a security's value caused by a change in the market, interest rate or foreign exchange environment does not constitute an other-than-temporary impairment, but rather a temporary decline in market value.  Temporary declines in market value are recorded as unrealized losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).  If the Company determines that the decline is other-than-temporary and the Company does not have the intent to sell the security; and it is more likely than not that the Company will not have to sell the security before recovery of its cost basis, the carrying value of the investment is written down to fair value.  The fair value adjustment that is credit or foreign exchange related is recorded in net realized capital gains (losses) in the Company's consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).  The fair value adjustment that is non-credit related is recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, and is included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the Company's consolidated balance sheets.  The Company's assessments are based on the issuers current and expected future financial position, timeliness with respect to interest and/or principal payments, speed of repayments and any applicable credit enhancements or breakeven constant default rates on mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, as well as relevant information provided by rating agencies, investment advisors and analysts.
The majority of the Company's equity securities available for sale at market value are primarily comprised of mutual fund investments whose underlying securities consist of fixed maturity securities.  When a fund's value reflects an unrealized loss, the Company assesses whether the decline in value is temporary or other-than-temporary.  In making its assessment, the Company considers the composition of its portfolios and their related markets, reports received from the portfolio managers and discussions with portfolio managers.  If the Company determines that the declines are temporary and it has the ability and intent to continue to hold the investments, then the declines are recorded as unrealized losses in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).  If declines are deemed to be other-than-temporary, then the carrying value of the investment is written down to fair value and recorded in net realized capital gains (losses) in the Company's consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).
Retrospective adjustments are employed to recalculate the values of asset-backed securities. All of the Company's asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities have a pass-through structure. Each acquisition lot is reviewed to recalculate the effective yield. The recalculated effective yield is used to derive a book value as if the new yield were applied at the time of acquisition. Outstanding principal factors from the time of acquisition to the adjustment date are used to calculate the prepayment history for all applicable securities. Conditional prepayment rates, computed with life to date factor histories and weighted average maturities, are used in the calculation of projected prepayments for pass-through security types.
The tables below display the aggregate market value and gross unrealized depreciation of fixed maturity and equity securities, by security type and contractual maturity, in each case subdivided according to length of time that individual securities had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for the periods indicated:
		Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2014 By Security Type
		Less than 12 months						Greater than 12 months						Total
					Gross						Gross						Gross
					Unrealized						Unrealized						Unrealized
(Dollars in thousands)		Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
U.S. government agencies and corporations		$	13,187		$	(20	)	$	26,897		$	(284	)	$	40,084		$	(304	)
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions			20,428			(242	)		18,199			(384	)		38,627			(626	)
Corporate securities			1,245,830			(55,388	)		362,320			(7,518	)		1,608,150			(62,906	)
Asset-backed securities			192,253			(1,230	)		-			-			192,253			(1,230	)
Mortgage-backed securities
Commercial			28,191			(123	)		9,777			(306	)		37,968			(429	)
Agency residential			141,807			(172	)		678,972			(11,401	)		820,779			(11,573	)
Non-agency residential			-			-			266			(57	)		266			(57	)
Foreign government securities			235,725			(15,415	)		139,200			(11,451	)		374,925			(26,866	)
Foreign corporate securities			567,905			(36,926	)		290,234			(16,148	)		858,139			(53,074	)
Total fixed maturity securities		$	2,445,326		$	(109,516	)	$	1,525,865		$	(47,549	)	$	3,971,191		$	(157,065	)
Equity securities			50,285			(4,068	)		73,994			(7,879	)		124,279			(11,947	)
Total		$	2,495,611		$	(113,584	)	$	1,599,859		$	(55,428	)	$	4,095,470		$	(169,012	)
		Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2014 By Maturity
		Less than 12 months						Greater than 12 months						Total
					Gross						Gross						Gross
					Unrealized						Unrealized						Unrealized
(Dollars in thousands)		Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation
Fixed maturity securities
Due in one year or less		$	98,021		$	(5,166	)	$	80,002		$	(8,174	)	$	178,023		$	(13,340	)
Due in one year through five years			1,233,244			(68,124	)		518,613			(12,761	)		1,751,857			(80,885	)
Due in five years through ten years			679,374			(28,529	)		187,717			(10,734	)		867,091			(39,263	)
Due after ten years			72,436			(6,172	)		50,518			(4,116	)		122,954			(10,288	)
Asset-backed securities			192,253			(1,230	)		-			-			192,253			(1,230	)
Mortgage-backed securities			169,998			(295	)		689,015			(11,764	)		859,013			(12,059	)
Total fixed maturity securities		$	2,445,326		$	(109,516	)	$	1,525,865		$	(47,549	)	$	3,971,191		$	(157,065	)
The aggregate market value and gross unrealized losses related to investments in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2014 were $4,095,470 thousand and $169,012 thousand, respectively.  The market value of securities for the single issuer whose securities comprised the largest unrealized loss position at December 31, 2014, did not exceed 0.2% of the overall market value of the Company's fixed maturity securities.  In addition, as indicated on the above table, there was no significant concentration of unrealized losses in any one market sector.  The $109,516 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed maturity securities that have been in an unrealized loss position for less than one year were generally comprised of domestic and foreign corporate securities, as well as foreign government securities.  The majority of these unrealized losses are attributable to unrealized losses in the energy sector, $58,891 thousand, as falling oil prices disrupted the market values for this sector, particularly for oil exploration, production and servicing companies during the fourth quarter of 2014 and unrealized foreign exchange losses, $34,687 thousand, as the U.S. dollar has strengthened against other currencies.  The $47,549 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed maturity securities in an unrealized loss position for more than one year related primarily to foreign and domestic corporate securities, foreign government securities and agency residential mortgage-backed securities.  Of these unrealized losses, $42,884 thousand related to securities that were rated investment grade by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating organization.  The gross unrealized depreciation for mortgage-backed securities included $15 thousand related to sub-prime and alt-A loans.  In all instances, there were no projected cash flow shortfalls to recover the full book value of the investments and the related interest obligations.  The mortgage-backed securities still have excess credit coverage and are current on interest and principal payments.
The Company, given the size of its investment portfolio and capital position, does not have the intent to sell these securities; and it is more likely than not that the Company will not have to sell the security before recovery of its cost basis.  In addition, all securities currently in an unrealized loss position are current with respect to principal and interest payments.
The tables below display the aggregate market value and gross unrealized depreciation of fixed maturity and equity securities, by security type and contractual maturity, in each case subdivided according to length of time that individual securities had been in a continuous unrealized loss position for the periods indicated:
		Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2013 By Security Type
		Less than 12 months						Greater than 12 months						Total
					Gross						Gross						Gross
					Unrealized						Unrealized						Unrealized
(Dollars in thousands)		Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale
U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
U.S. government agencies and corporations		$	74,847		$	(1,033	)	$	8,751		$	(645	)	$	83,598		$	(1,678	)
Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions			92,760			(4,852	)		39,689			(4,170	)		132,449			(9,022	)
Corporate securities			959,396			(22,331	)		75,946			(4,759	)		1,035,342			(27,090	)
Asset-backed securities			5,494			(6	)		1,128			(416	)		6,622			(422	)
Mortgage-backed securities
Commercial			51			-			11,353			(1,007	)		11,404			(1,007	)
Agency residential			1,220,845			(40,420	)		264,640			(9,755	)		1,485,485			(50,175	)
Non-agency residential			1,758			(22	)		1,541			(204	)		3,299			(226	)
Foreign government securities			409,252			(20,350	)		85,029			(8,997	)		494,281			(29,347	)
Foreign corporate securities			872,907			(34,819	)		151,748			(10,809	)		1,024,655			(45,628	)
Total fixed maturity securities		$	3,637,310		$	(123,833	)	$	639,825		$	(40,762	)	$	4,277,135		$	(164,595	)
Equity securities			127,030			(8,597	)		-			-			127,030			(8,597	)
Total		$	3,764,340		$	(132,430	)	$	639,825		$	(40,762	)	$	4,404,165		$	(173,192	)
		Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2013 By Maturity
		Less than 12 months						Greater than 12 months						Total
					Gross						Gross						Gross
					Unrealized						Unrealized						Unrealized
(Dollars in thousands)		Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation
Fixed maturity securities
Due in one year or less		$	143,098		$	(3,503	)	$	46,691		$	(5,330	)	$	189,789		$	(8,833	)
Due in one year through five years			1,125,680			(25,365	)		204,779			(11,279	)		1,330,459			(36,644	)
Due in five years through ten years			810,969			(35,169	)		48,064			(3,844	)		859,033			(39,013	)
Due after ten years			329,415			(19,348	)		61,629			(8,927	)		391,044			(28,275	)
Asset-backed securities			5,494			(6	)		1,128			(416	)		6,622			(422	)
Mortgage-backed securities			1,222,654			(40,442	)		277,534			(10,966	)		1,500,188			(51,408	)
Total fixed maturity securities		$	3,637,310		$	(123,833	)	$	639,825		$	(40,762	)	$	4,277,135		$	(164,595	)
The aggregate market value and gross unrealized losses related to investments in an unrealized loss position at December 31, 2013 were $4,404,165 thousand and $173,192 thousand, respectively.  The market value of securities for the single issuer whose securities comprised the largest unrealized loss position at December 31, 2013, did not exceed 0.4% of the overall market value of the Company's fixed maturity securities.  In addition, as indicated on the above table, there was no significant concentration of unrealized losses in any one market sector.  The $123,833 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed maturity securities that have been in an unrealized loss position for less than one year were generally comprised of domestic and foreign corporate securities, foreign government securities and agency residential mortgage-backed securities.  Of these unrealized losses, $112,658 thousand were related to securities that were rated investment grade by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating organization. The $40,762 thousand of unrealized losses related to fixed maturity securities in an unrealized loss position for more than one year related primarily to domestic and foreign corporate securities, foreign government securities, municipal securities and agency residential mortgage-backed securities.  Of these unrealized losses, $38,964 thousand related to securities that were rated investment grade by at least one nationally recognized statistical rating organization.  The gross unrealized depreciation for mortgage-backed securities included $273 thousand related to sub-prime and alt-A loans.  In all instances, there were no projected cash flow shortfalls to recover the full book value of the investments and the related interest obligations.  The mortgage-backed securities still have excess credit coverage and are current on interest and principal payments.
The components of net investment income are presented in the table below for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
Fixed maturities		$	462,757		$	473,493		$	489,801
Equity securities			47,193			45,387			59,156
Short-term investments and cash			1,635			1,295			1,252
Other invested assets
Limited partnerships			40,868			46,921			64,896
Other			3,619			7,329			3,851
Gross investment income before adjustments			556,072			574,425			618,956
Funds held interest income (expense)			9,471			10,613			10,580
Future policy benefit reserve income (expense)			(1,686	)		(2,770	)		(2,902	)
Gross investment income			563,857			582,268			626,634
Investment expenses			(33,287	)		(33,759	)		(26,432	)
Net investment income		$	530,570		$	548,509		$	600,202
The Company records results from limited partnership investments on the equity method of accounting with changes in value reported through net investment income.  Due to the timing of receiving financial information from these partnerships, the results are generally reported on a one month or quarter lag.  If the Company determines there has been a significant decline in value of a limited partnership during this lag period, a loss will be recorded in the period in which the Company identifies the decline.
The Company had contractual commitments to invest up to an additional $403,003 thousand in limited partnerships at December 31, 2014.  These commitments will be funded when called in accordance with the partnership agreements, which have investment periods that expire, unless extended, through 2020.
The components of net realized capital gains (losses) are presented in the table below for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
Fixed maturity securities, market value:
Other-than-temporary impairments		$	(39,502	)	$	(1,052	)	$	(10,022	)
Gains (losses) from sales			4,408			6,792			14,708
Fixed maturity securities, fair value:
Gains (losses) from sales			(3,137	)		201			5,675
Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments			(1,498	)		307			1,941
Equity securities, market value:
Gains (losses) from sales			426			2,648			14,920
Equity securities, fair value:
Gains (losses) from sales			156			32,747			21,031
Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments			123,196			258,569			116,163
Short-term investments gain (loss)			(3	)		15			(16	)
Total net realized capital gains (losses)		$	84,046		$	300,227		$	164,400
The Company recorded as net realized capital gains (losses) in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) both fair value re-measurements and write-downs in the value of securities deemed to be impaired on an other-than-temporary basis as displayed in the table above.  The Company had no other-than-temporary impaired securities where the impairment had both a credit and non-credit component.
The proceeds and split between gross gains and losses, from sales of fixed maturity and equity securities, are presented in the table below for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
Proceeds from sales of fixed maturity securities		$	1,848,268		$	1,113,960		$	998,056
Gross gains from sales			37,427			38,141			38,144
Gross losses from sales			(36,156	)		(31,148	)		(17,761	)
Proceeds from sales of equity securities		$	600,970		$	751,973		$	839,547
Gross gains from sales			20,900			44,703			57,814
Gross losses from sales			(20,318	)		(9,308	)		(21,863	)
During 2012, the Company redeemed one of its mutual fund investments reflected on the balance sheet as an equity security – available for sale, at market value.  As part of the redemption settlement, the Company received its proportionate share of the fund's fixed maturities and related accrued interest in the amount of $92,981 thousand.  The Company has categorized the fixed maturities as available for sale, at market value.
Securities with a carrying value amount of $1,434,105 thousand at December 31, 2014 were on deposit with various state or governmental insurance departments in compliance with insurance laws.

Reserve_For_Losses_LAE_And_Fut

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Abstract]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve	3.  RESERVE FOR LOSSES, LAE AND FUTURE POLICY BENEFIT RESERVE
	Reserves for losses and LAE.
	Activity in the reserve for losses and LAE is summarized for the periods indicated:
		At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross reserves at January 1	$	9,673,240		$	10,069,055		$	10,123,215
	Less reinsurance recoverables		(473,866	)		(602,750	)		(580,998	)
	Net reserves at January 1		9,199,374			9,466,305			9,542,217
	Incurred related to:
	Current year		2,946,396			2,818,490			2,748,925
	Prior years		(39,862	)		(18,239	)		(3,660	)
	Total incurred losses and LAE		2,906,534			2,800,251			2,745,265
	Paid related to:
	Current year		761,788			664,719			633,894
	Prior years		2,089,734			2,353,817			2,220,202
	Total paid losses and LAE		2,851,522			3,018,536			2,854,096
	Foreign exchange/translation adjustment		(160,655	)		(48,646	)		32,919
	Net reserves at December 31		9,093,731			9,199,374			9,466,305
	Plus reinsurance recoverables		627,082			473,866			602,750
	Gross reserves at December 31	$	9,720,813		$	9,673,240		$	10,069,055
	Incurred prior years' reserves decreased by $39,862 thousand, $18,239 thousand and $3,660 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The decrease for 2014 was attributable to favorable development in the reinsurance segments of $202,418 thousand related to treaty casualty, treaty property and catastrophe reserves, partially offset by $137,769 thousand development on A&E reserves and $186 thousand of favorable development related to Mt. Logan reserves and $24,973 thousand of unfavorable development in the insurance segment primarily related to construction liability and umbrella business.
	The decrease for 2013 was attributable to a $148,788 thousand decrease in reinsurance business, primarily related to favorable development on treaty property reserves, partially offset by a $130,548 thousand increase in insurance business, primarily related to development on contractors' liability, umbrella and workers compensation reserves.
	The decrease for 2012 was attributable to a $57,205 thousand decrease in reinsurance business, primarily related to favorable development on treaty casualty reserves, partially offset by a $53,545 thousand increase in insurance business, primarily related to development on contractors' liability and workers compensation reserves.
	The Company continues to receive claims under expired insurance and reinsurance contracts asserting injuries and/or damages relating to or resulting from environmental pollution and hazardous substances, including asbestos.  Environmental claims typically assert liability for (a) the mitigation or remediation of environmental contamination or (b) bodily injury or property damage caused by the release of hazardous substances into the land, air or water.  Asbestos claims typically assert liability for bodily injury from exposure to asbestos or for property damage resulting from asbestos or products containing asbestos.
	The Company's reserves include an estimate of the Company's ultimate liability for A&E claims.  The Company's A&E liabilities emanate from Mt. McKinley's direct insurance business and Everest Re's assumed reinsurance business.  All of the contracts of insurance and reinsurance under which the Company has received claims during the past three years expired more than 20 years ago.  There are significant uncertainties surrounding the Company's reserves for its A&E losses.
	A&E exposures represent a separate exposure group for monitoring and evaluating reserve adequacy.  The following table summarizes incurred losses with respect to A&E reserves on both a gross and net of reinsurance basis for the periods indicated:
		At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross basis:
	Beginning of period reserves	$	402,461		$	442,821		$	499,911
	Incurred losses		142,233			5,599			132
	Paid losses		(68,489	)		(45,959	)		(57,222	)
	End of period reserves	$	476,205		$	402,461		$	442,821
	Net basis:
	Beginning of period reserves	$	386,677		$	425,691		$	480,160
	Incurred losses		137,769			5,400			124
	Paid losses		(66,235	)		(44,414	)		(54,593	)
	End of period reserves	$	458,211		$	386,677		$	425,691
	Reinsurance Receivables.  Reinsurance receivables for both paid and recoverable on unpaid losses totaled $670,854 thousand at December 31, 2014 and $540,883 thousand at December 31, 2013.  At December 31, 2014, $102,284 thousand, or 15.2%, was receivable from C.V. Starr (Bermuda) ("C.V. Starr"); $74,960 thousand, or 11.2%, was receivable from Resolution Group Reinsurance (Barbados) Limited ("Resolution Group"); $64,591 thousand, or 9.6%, was receivable from Federal Crop Insurance Company; $60,680 thousand, or 9.0%, was receivable from Zurich Vericherungs Gesellschaft; $39,467 thousand, or 5.9%, was receivable from Transatlantic Reinsurance Company; $37,224 thousand, or 5.5%, was receivable from Hannover Rueck SE; $35,198 thousand, or 5.2%, was receivable from Axis Reinsurance Company and $33,903 thousand, or 5.1%, was receivable from Axa Seguros Gen SA De Seguros Y Reaseguros.  The receivables from C.V. Starr and Resolution Group are fully collateralized by individual trust agreements.  No other retrocessionaire accounted for more than 5% of our receivables.
	Future Policy Benefit Reserve.
	Activity in the reserve for future policy benefits is summarized for the periods indicated:
		At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Balance at beginning of year	$	59,512		$	66,107		$	67,187
	Liabilities assumed		250			103			126
	Adjustments to reserves		4,724			(3,066	)		2,365
	Benefits paid in the current year		(4,667	)		(3,632	)		(3,571	)
	Balance at end of year	$	59,820		$	59,512		$	66,107
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)

Fair_Value

Fair Value	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value [Abstract]
Fair Value	4.  FAIR VALUE
	The Company's fixed maturity and equity securities are primarily managed by third party investment asset managers.  The investment asset managers obtain prices from nationally recognized pricing services.   These services seek to utilize market data and observations in their evaluation process.  They use pricing applications that vary by asset class and incorporate available market information and when fixed maturity securities do not trade on a daily basis the services will apply available information through processes such as benchmark curves, benchmarking of like securities, sector groupings and matrix pricing.  In addition, they use model processes, such as the Option Adjusted Spread model to develop prepayment and interest rate scenarios for securities that have prepayment features.
	In limited instances where prices are not provided by pricing services or in rare instances when a manager may not agree with the pricing service, price quotes on a non-binding basis are obtained from investment brokers.  The investment asset managers do not make any changes to prices received from either the pricing services or the investment brokers.  In addition, the investment asset managers have procedures in place to review the reasonableness of the prices from the service providers and may request verification of the prices.  In addition, the Company continually performs analytical reviews of price changes and tests the prices on a random basis to an independent pricing source.  No material variances were noted during these price validation procedures.  In limited situations, where financial markets are inactive or illiquid, the Company may use its own assumptions about future cash flows and risk-adjusted discount rates to determine fair value.  The Company made no such adjustments at December 31, 2014 and 2013.
	The Company internally manages a small public equity portfolio which had a fair value at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 of $196,980 thousand and $174,628 thousand, respectively, and all prices were obtained from publically published sources.
	Equity securities in U.S. denominated currency are categorized as Level 1, Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets, since the securities are actively traded on an exchange and prices are based on quoted prices from the exchange.  Equity securities traded on foreign exchanges are categorized as Level 2 due to potential foreign exchange adjustments to fair or market value.
	Fixed maturity securities are generally categorized as Level 2, Significant Other Observable Inputs, since a particular security may not have traded but the pricing services are able to use valuation models with observable market inputs such as interest rate yield curves and prices for similar fixed maturity securities in terms of issuer, maturity and seniority.  Valuations that are derived from techniques in which one or more of the significant inputs are unobservable (including assumptions about risk) are categorized as Level 3, Significant Unobservable Inputs.  These securities include broker priced securities and the Company's equity index put option contracts.
	At December 31, 2014 and 2013, all Level 3 fixed maturity securities, were priced using single non-binding broker quotes since prices for these securities were not provided by normal pricing service companies.  The single broker quotes are provided by market makers or broker-dealers who are recognized as market participants in the markets in which they are providing the quotes.  The prices received from brokers are reviewed for reasonableness by the third party asset managers and the Company.
	The Company sold seven equity index put option contracts, based on two indices, in 2001 and 2005, which remain outstanding.  The Company sold these equity index put options as insurance products with the intent of achieving a profit.  These equity index put option contracts meet the definition of a derivative under FASB guidance and the Company's position in these equity index put option contracts is unhedged.  Accordingly, these equity index put option contracts are carried at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets with changes in fair value recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).
	The Company sold six equity index put option contracts, based on the Standard & Poor's 500 ("S&P 500") index, for total consideration, net of commissions, of $22,530 thousand.  At December 31, 2014, fair value for these equity index put option contracts was $38,063 thousand.  Based on historical index volatilities and trends and the December 31, 2014 S&P 500 index value, the Company estimates the probability that each equity index put option contract of the S&P 500 index falling below the strike price on the exercise date to be less than 19%.  The theoretical maximum payouts under these six equity index put option contracts would occur if on each of the exercise dates the S&P 500 index value were zero.  At December 31, 2014, the present value of these theoretical maximum payouts using a 3% discount factor was $420,013 thousand.  Conversely, if the contracts had all expired on December 31, 2014, with the S&P index at $2,058.90, there would have been no settlement amount.
	The Company sold one equity index put option contract based on the FTSE 100 index for total consideration, net of commissions, of $6,706 thousand.  At December 31, 2014, fair value for this equity index put option contract was $8,959 thousand.  Based on historical index volatilities and trends and the December 31, 2014 FTSE 100 index value, the Company estimates the probability that the equity index put option contract of the FTSE 100 index will fall below the strike price on the exercise date to be less than 44%.  The theoretical maximum payout under the equity index put option contract would occur if on the exercise date the FTSE 100 index value was zero.  At December 31, 2014, the present value of the theoretical maximum payout using a 3% discount factor and current exchange rate was $43,334 thousand.  Conversely, if the contract had expired on December 31, 2014, with the FTSE index at £6,566.10, there would have been no settlement amount.
	The fair value of the equity put option contract is calculated using an industry accepted option pricing model, Black-Scholes.  The inputs and assumptions for the model are updated on a quarterly basis.
	The following table presents the fair value measurement levels for all assets and liabilities, which the Company has recorded at fair value (fair and market value) as of the periods indicated:
					Fair Value Measurement Using:
					Quoted Prices
					in Active			Significant
					Markets for			Other			Significant
					Identical			Observable			Unobservable
					Assets			Inputs			Inputs
	(Dollars in thousands)	31-Dec-14			(Level 1)			(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Assets:
	Fixed maturities, market value
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government agencies and corporations	$	231,038		$	-		$	231,038		$	-
	Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions		824,472			-			824,472			-
	Corporate securities		4,706,985			-			4,706,985			-
	Asset-backed securities		341,222			-			341,222			-
	Mortgage-backed securities
	Commercial		241,685			-			233,088			8,597
	Agency residential		2,183,164			-			2,183,164			-
	Non-agency residential		2,731			-			2,731			-
	Foreign government securities		1,532,455			-			1,532,455			-
	Foreign corporate securities		3,037,315			-			3,030,149			7,166
	Total fixed maturities, market value		13,101,067			-			13,085,304			15,763
	Fixed maturities, fair value		1,509			-			1,509			-
	Equity securities, market value		140,210			124,295			15,915			-
	Equity securities, fair value		1,447,820			1,337,396			110,424			-
	Liabilities:
	Equity index put option contracts	$	47,022		$	-		$	-		$	47,022
	There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014.
	The following table presents the fair value measurement levels for all assets and liabilities, which the Company has recorded at fair value (fair and market value) as of the periods indicated:
					Fair Value Measurement Using:
					Quoted Prices
					in Active			Significant
					Markets for			Other			Significant
					Identical			Observable			Unobservable
					Assets			Inputs			Inputs
	(Dollars in thousands)	31-Dec-13			(Level 1)			(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Assets:
	Fixed maturities, market value
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government agencies and corporations	$	161,025		$	-		$	161,025		$	-
	Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions		1,002,528			-			1,002,528			-
	Corporate securities		4,079,416			-			4,079,416			-
	Asset-backed securities		173,043			-			167,744			5,299
	Mortgage-backed securities
	Commercial		270,441			-			270,441			-
	Agency residential		2,279,053			-			2,279,053			-
	Non-agency residential		4,819			-			4,472			347
	Foreign government securities		1,780,769			-			1,780,769			-
	Foreign corporate securities		2,885,813			-			2,885,332			481
	Total fixed maturities, market value		12,636,907			-			12,630,780			6,127
	Fixed maturities, fair value		19,388			-			19,388			-
	Equity securities, market value		144,081			127,030			17,051			-
	Equity securities, fair value		1,462,079			1,342,278			119,801			-
Liabilities:
Equity index put option contracts	$	35,423		$	-		$	-		$	35,423
The following tables present the activity under Level 3, fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs by asset type, for the periods indicated:
	31-Dec-14																					31-Dec-13
	Corporate			Asset-backed						Foreign			Non-agency			Agency						Asset-backed			Foreign			Foreign			Non-agency			Agency
(Dollars in thousands)	Securities			Securities			CMBS			Corporate			RMBS			RMBS			Total			Securities			Corporate			Government			RMBS			RMBS			Total
Beginning balance	$	-		$	5,299		$	-		$	481		$	347		$	-		$	6,127		$	4,849		$	11,913		$	-		$	426		$	34,842		$	52,030
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings		-			1,259			-			73			329			-			1,661			258			(738	)		(112	)		161			-			(431	)
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)		42			(126	)		(426	)		(5,221	)		(138	)		-			(5,869	)		(717	)		(587	)		(179	)		(38	)		-			(1,521	)
Purchases, issuances and settlements		1,274			21,303			9,023			4,038			(538	)		29,845			64,945			(624	)		2,858			516			(317	)		-			2,433
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3		(1,316	)		(27,735	)		-			7,795			-			(29,845	)		(51,101	)		1,533			(12,965	)		(225	)		115			(34,842	)		(46,384	)
Ending balance	$	-		$	-		$	8,597		$	7,166		$	-		$	-		$	15,763		$	5,299		$	481		$	-		$	347		$	-		$	6,127
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included
in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the
change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets
still held at the reporting date	$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
The transfers from level 3, fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs, of $51,101 thousand and $46,384 thousand of investments for the years ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, primarily relate to securities that were priced using single non-binding broker quotes as of December 31, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.  The securities were subsequently priced using a recognized pricing service as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and were classified as level 2 as of those dates.
The following table presents the activity under Level 3, fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs for equity index put option contracts, for the periods indicated:
	Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013
Liabilities:
Balance, beginning of period	$	35,423		$	79,467
Total (gains) or losses (realized/unrealized)
Included in earnings		11,599			(44,044	)
Included in other comprehensive income (loss)		-			-
Purchases, issuances and settlements		-			-
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3		-			-
Balance, end of period	$	47,022		$	35,423
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings
(or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized
gains or losses relating to liabilities still held at the reporting date	$	-		$	-
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)

Redeemable_Noncontrolling_Inte

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest - MT. Logan RE	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest - MT. Logan RE [Abstract]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest - MT. Logan RE	5.   REDEEMABLE NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS – MT. LOGAN RE
	Mt. Logan Re is a Class 3 insurer registered in Bermuda effective February 27, 2013 under The Segregated Accounts Companies Act 2000 and 100% of the voting common shares are owned by Group.  Separate segregated accounts have been established effective July 1, 2013 and non-voting, redeemable preferred shares have been issued to capitalize the segregated accounts.  Each segregated account will invest in a diversified set of catastrophe exposures, diversified by risk/peril and across different geographic regions globally.  The financial statements for Mt. Logan Re are consolidated with the Company with adjustments reflected for the third party noncontrolling interests reflected as separate captions in the Company's financial statements.
	The following table presents the activity for redeemable noncontrolling interests in the consolidated balance sheets for the periods indicated:
		At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, beginning of period	$	93,378		$	-
	Unaffiliated third party investments during period, net		279,200			87,500
	Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		59,307			5,878
	Dividends paid on third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest		(10,334	)		-
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, end of period	$	421,552		$	93,378
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
	In addition, the Company has invested $50,000 thousand in the segregated accounts from inception to date.
	Effective January 1, 2015, unaffiliated third parties have invested an additional $271,848 thousand in the segregated accounts.  Part of these third party investments were received prior to December 31, 2014 and are reflected as subscription advances.
	The Company expects its participation level in the segregated funds to fluctuate over time.

Credit_Facilities

Credit Facilities	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Credit Facilities [Abstract]
Credit Facilities	6.CREDIT FACILITIES
	The Company has two active credit facilities for a total commitment of up to $1,100,000 thousand, providing for the issuance of letters of credit and/or unsecured revolving credit lines. The following table presents the costs incurred in connection with the three credit facilities for the periods indicated:
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013				2012
	Credit facility fees incurred		$	659		$	964			$	3,519
	The terms and outstanding amounts for each facility are discussed below:
	Group Credit Facility
	Effective June 22, 2012, Group, Bermuda Re and Everest International entered into a four year, $800,000 thousand senior credit facility with a syndicate of lenders, which amended and restated in its entirety the July 27, 2007, five year, $850,000 thousand senior credit facility.Both the June 22, 2012 and July 27, 2007 senior credit facilities, which have similar terms, are referred to as the Group Credit Facility.Wells Fargo Corporation (Wells Fargo Bank) is the administrative agent for the Group Credit Facility, which consists of two tranches.Tranche one provides up to $200,000 thousand of unsecured revolving credit for liquidity and general corporate purposes, and for the issuance of unsecured standby letters of credit.The interest on the revolving loans shall, at the Companys option, be either (1) the Base Rate (as defined below) or (2) an adjusted London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus a margin.The Base Rate is the higher of (a) the prime commercial lending rate established by Wells Fargo Bank, (b) the Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5% per annum or (c) the one month LIBOR Rate plus 1.0% per annum. The amount of margin and the fees payable for the Group Credit Facility depends on Groups senior unsecured debt rating.Tranche two exclusively provides up to $600,000 thousand for the issuance of standby letters of credit on a collateralized basis.
	The Group Credit Facility requires Group to maintain a debt to capital ratio of not greater than 0.35 to 1 and to maintain a minimum net worth.Minimum net worth is an amount equal to the sum of $4,249,963 thousand plus 25% of consolidated net income for each of Groups fiscal quarters, for which statements are available ending on or after January 1, 2012 and for which consolidated net income is positive, plus 25% of any increase in consolidated net worth during such period attributable to the issuance of ordinary and preferred shares, which at December 31, 2014, was $5,115,795 thousand.  As of December 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all Group Credit Facility covenants.
	The following table summarizes the outstanding letters of credit and/or borrowings for the periods indicated:
	(Dollars in thousands)			At December 31, 2014								At December 31, 2013
	Bank			Commitment			In Use			Date of Expiry		Commitment			In Use			Date of Expiry
	Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility	Tranche One		$	200,000		$	-				$	200,000		$	-
		Tranche Two			600,000			444,012		12/31/15			600,000			502,059		12/31/14
	Total Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility			$	800,000		$	444,012				$	800,000		$	502,059
	Bermuda Re Letter of Credit Facility
	Effective December 31, 2014, Bermuda Re renewed its $300,000 thousand letter of credit issuance facility with Citibank N.A. referred to as the Bermuda Re Letter of Credit Facility, which commitment is reconfirmed annually with updated fees.The Bermuda Re Letter of Credit Facility provides for the issuance of up to $300,000 thousand of secured letters of credit to collateralize reinsurance obligations as a non-admitted reinsurer.The interest on drawn letters of credit shall be (A) 0.35% per annum of the principal amount of issued standard letters of credit (expiry of 15 months or less) and (B) 0.45% per annum of the principal amount of issued extended tenor letters of credit (expiry maximum of up to 60 months).The commitment fee on undrawn credit shall be 0.15% per annum.
	The following table summarizes the outstanding letters of credit for the periods indicated:
	(Dollars in thousands)		At December 31, 2014								At December 31, 2013
	Bank		Commitment			In Use			Date of Expiry		Commitment			In Use			Date of Expiry
	Citibank Bilateral Letter of Credit Agreement		$	300,000		$	112		8/30/15		$	300,000		$	119		8/30/14
							3,672		11/24/15						3,672		11/24/14
							70,922		12/31/15						79,336		12/31/14
							2,014		12/31/16						1,045		12/31/15
							149,353		12/30/18						22,800		12/31/17
							-								129,147		3/30/18
	Total Citibank Bilateral Agreement		$	300,000		$	226,073				$	300,000		$	236,119
	Holdings Credit Facility - Expired
	Effective August 15, 2011, the Company entered into a three year, $150,000 thousand unsecured revolving credit facility, referred to as the "Holdings Credit Facility", which expired on August 15, 2014.  The Company decided not to renew the Holdings Credit Facility at expiration.
	The following table summarizes outstanding letters of credit and/or borrowings for the periods indicated:
	(Dollars in thousands)		At December 31, 2014									At December 31, 2013
	Bank		Commitment			In Use			Date of Loan	Maturity/Expiry Date		Commitment			In Use			Date of Loan	Maturity/Expiry Date
	Citibank Holdings Credit Facility		$	-		$	-					$	150,000		$	-
	Total revolving credit borrowings						-									-
	Total letters of credit						-									851			12/31/14
	Total Citibank Holdings Credit Facility		$	-		$	-					$	150,000		$	851

Senior_Notes

Senior Notes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Senior Notes [Abstract]
Senior Notes	7.  SENIOR NOTES
	The table below displays Holdings' outstanding senior notes.  Market value is based on quoted market prices, but due to limited trading activity, these senior notes are considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.
								31-Dec-14					31-Dec-13
								Consolidated Balance					Consolidated Balance
	(Dollars in thousands)	Date Issued		Date Due	Principal Amounts			Sheet Amount			Market Value		Sheet Amount		Market Value
	5.40% Senior notes	10/12/04		10/15/14	$	250,000		$	-		$	-	$	249,958	$	259,130
	4.868% Senior notes	6/5/14		6/1/44		400,000			400,000			404,892		-		-
	On June 5, 2014, Holdings issued $400,000 thousand of 30 year senior notes at 4.868%, which will mature on June 1, 2044.  Interest will be paid semi-annually on June 1 and December 1 of each year.  The proceeds from the issuance have been used in part to pay off the $250,000 thousand of 5.40% senior notes which matured on October 15, 2014.
	Interest expense incurred in connection with these senior notes is as follows for the periods indicated:
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Interest expense incurred		$	21,818		$	13,551		$	13,548

Long_Term_Subordinated_Notes

Long Term Subordinated Notes

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2014

Long Term Subordinated Notes [Abstract]

Long Term Subordinated Notes

8.LONG TERM SUBORDINATED NOTES

The table below displays Holdings outstanding fixed to floating rate long term subordinated notes.Market value is based on quoted market prices, but due to limited trading activity, these subordinated notes are considered Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.

Maturity Date

31-Dec-14

31-Dec-13

Original

Consolidated Balance

Consolidated Balance

(Dollars in thousands)

Date Issued

Principal Amount

Scheduled

Final

Sheet Amount

Market Value

Sheet Amount

Market Value

6.6% Long term subordinated notes

4/26/07

$

400,000

5/15/37

5/1/67

$

238,364

$

246,312

$

238,361

$

233,292

During the fixed rate interest period from May 3, 2007 through May 14, 2017, interest will be at the annual rate of 6.6%, payable semi-annually in arrears on November 15 and May 15 of each year, commencing on November 15, 2007, subject to Holdings right to defer interest on one or more occasions for up to ten consecutive years.During the floating rate interest period from May 15, 2017 through maturity, interest will be based on the 3 month LIBOR plus 238.5 basis points, reset quarterly, payable quarterly in arrears on February 15, May 15, August 15 and November 15 of each year, subject to Holdings right to defer interest on one or more occasions for up to ten consecutive years.Deferred interest will accumulate interest at the applicable rate compounded semi-annually for periods prior to May 15, 2017, and compounded quarterly for periods from and including May 15, 2017.

Holdings can redeem the long term subordinated notes prior to May 15, 2017, in whole but not in part at the applicable redemption price, which will equal the greater of (a) 100% of the principal amount being redeemed and (b) the present value of the principal payment on May 15, 2017 and scheduled payments of interest that would have accrued from the redemption date to May 15, 2017 on the long term subordinated notes being redeemed, discounted to the redemption date on a semi-annual basis at a discount rate equal to the treasury rate plus an applicable spread of either 0.25% or 0.50%, in each case plus accrued and unpaid interest.Holdings may redeem the long term subordinated notes on or after May 15, 2017, in whole or in part at 100% of the principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest; however, redemption on or after the scheduled maturity date and prior to May 1, 2047 is subject to a replacement capital covenant.This covenant is for the benefit of certain senior note holders and it mandates that Holdings receive proceeds from the sale of another subordinated debt issue, of at least similar size, before it may redeem the subordinated notes.Effective upon the maturity of the Companys 5.40% senior notes on October 15, 2014, the Companys 4.868% senior notes, due on June 1, 2044, have become the Companys long term indebtedness that ranks senior to the long term subordinated notes.

On March 19, 2009, Group announced the commencement of a cash tender offer for any and all of the 6.60% fixed to floating rate long term subordinated notes.Upon expiration of the tender offer, the Company had reduced its outstanding debt by $161,441 thousand.

Interest expense incurred in connection with these long term subordinated notes is as follows for the periods indicated:

Years Ended December 31,

(Dollars in thousands)

2014

2013

2012

Interest expense incurred

$

15,749

$

15,748

$

15,748

Junior_Subordinated_Debt_Secur

Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable [Abstract]
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable	9.JUNIOR SUBORDINATED DEBT SECURITIES PAYABLE
	In accordance with the provisions of the junior subordinated debt securities which were issued on March 29, 2004, Holdings elected to redeem the $329,897 thousand of 6.2% junior subordinated debt securities outstanding on May 24, 2013.As a result of the early redemption, the Company incurred pre-tax expense of $7,282 thousand related to the immediate amortization of the remaining capitalized issuance costs on the trust preferred securities.
	Interest expense incurred in connection with these junior subordinated debt securities is as follows for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014		2013		2012
	Interest expense incurred	$	-	$	8,181	$	20,454
	Holdings considered the mechanisms and obligations relating to the trust preferred securities, taken together, constituted a full and unconditional guarantee by Holdings of Capital Trust II's payment obligations with respect to their trust preferred securities.

Reinsurance_And_Trust_Agreemen

Reinsurance And Trust Agreements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Reinsurance And Trust Agreements [Abstract]
Reinsurance And Trust Agreements	10.  REINSURANCE AND TRUST AGREEMENTS
	Certain subsidiaries of Group have established trust agreements, which effectively use the Company's investments as collateral, as security for assumed losses payable to certain non-affiliated ceding companies.  At December 31, 2014, the total amount on deposit in trust accounts was $322,285 thousand.
	On April 24, 2014, the Company entered into two collateralized reinsurance agreements with Kilimanjaro Re Limited ("Kilimanjaro"), a Bermuda based special purpose reinsurer, to provide the Company with catastrophe reinsurance coverage.  These agreements are multi-year reinsurance contracts which cover specified named storm and earthquake events.  The first agreement provides up to $250,000 thousand of reinsurance coverage from named storms in specified states of the Southeastern United States.  The second agreement provides up to $200,000 thousand of reinsurance coverage from named storms in specified states of the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions of the United States and Puerto Rico as well as reinsurance coverage from earthquakes in specified states of the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, Northeast and West regions of the United States, Puerto Rico and British Columbia.
	On November 18, 2014, the Company entered into a collateralized reinsurance agreement with Kilimanjaro Re to provide the Company with catastrophe reinsurance coverage.  This agreement is a multi-year reinsurance contract which covers specified earthquake events.  The agreement provides up to $500,000 thousand of reinsurance coverage from earthquakes in the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada.
	Kilimanjaro has financed the various property catastrophe reinsurance coverage by issuing catastrophe bonds to unrelated, external investors. On April 24, 2014, Kilimanjaro issued $450,000 thousand of variable rate notes ("Series 2014-1 Notes").  On November 18, 2014, Kilimanjaro issued $500,000 thousand of variable rate notes ("Series 2014-2 Notes"). The proceeds from the issuance of the Series 2014-1 Notes and the Series 2014-2 Notes are held in reinsurance trust throughout the duration of the applicable reinsurance agreements and invested solely in US government money market funds with a rating of at least "AAAm" by Standard & Poor's.

Operating_Lease_Agreements

Operating Lease Agreements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating Lease Agreements [Abstract]
Operating Lease Agreements	11.  OPERATING LEASE AGREEMENTS
	The future minimum rental commitments, exclusive of cost escalation clauses, at December 31, 2014, for all of the Company's operating leases with remaining non-cancelable terms in excess of one year are as follows:
	(Dollars in thousands)
	2015	$	13,370
	2016		13,975
	2017		12,776
	2018		12,573
	2019		12,392
	Thereafter		20,676
	Net commitments	$	85,762
	All of these leases, the expiration terms of which range from 2015 to 2024, are for the rental of office space.  Rental expense was $15,519 thousand, 14,407 thousand and $14,169 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	12.  INCOME TAXES
	Under Bermuda law, no income or capital gains taxes are imposed on Group and its Bermuda Subsidiaries.  The Minister of Finance of Bermuda has assured Group and its Bermuda subsidiaries that, pursuant to The Exempted Undertakings Tax Protection Amendment Act of 2011, they will be exempt until 2035 from imposition of any such taxes.
	All of the income of Group's non-Bermuda subsidiaries is subject to the applicable federal, foreign, state and local taxes on corporations.  Additionally, the income of foreign branches of the Company's insurance operating companies, in particular the UK branch of Bermuda Re, is subject to various rates of income tax. Group's U.S. subsidiaries conduct business in and are subject to taxation in the U.S.  Should the U.S. subsidiaries distribute current or accumulated earnings and profits in the form of dividends or otherwise, the Company would be subject to an accrual of 5% withholding taxes.  Currently, however, no withholding taxes are accrued with respect to such un-remitted earnings as management has no intention of remitting them.  The cumulative amount that would be subject to withholding tax, if distributed, is not practicable to compute.  The provision for income taxes in the consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) has been determined in accordance with the individual income of each entity and the respective applicable tax laws.  The provision reflects the permanent differences between financial and taxable income relevant to each entity. The significant components of the provision are as follows for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Current tax expense (benefit):
	U.S.	$	143,297		$	116,829		$	46,723
	Non-U.S.		22,575			18,219			14,131
	Total current tax expense (benefit)		165,872			135,048			60,854
	Total deferred U.S. tax expense (benefit)		21,780			154,658			49,718
	Total income tax expense (benefit)	$	187,652		$	289,706		$	110,572
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
	The weighted average expected tax provision has been calculated using the pre-tax income (loss) in each jurisdiction multiplied by that jurisdiction's applicable statutory tax rate.  Reconciliation of the difference between the provision for income taxes and the expected tax provision at the weighted average tax rate for the periods indicated is provided below:
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014						2013						2012
		U.S.			Non-U.S.			U.S.			Non-U.S.			U.S.			Non-U.S.
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	228,194		$	658,421		$	246,699		$	491,909		$	42,775		$	216,228
	Net investment income		260,501			270,069			274,920			273,589			287,382			312,820
	Net realized capital gains (losses)		78,006			6,040			295,814			4,413			143,326			21,073
	Net derivative gain (loss)		-			(11,599	)		-			44,044			-			(9,738	)
	Corporate expenses		(7,252	)		(16,169	)		(8,262	)		(16,555	)		(8,764	)		(15,211	)
	Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense		(37,970	)		(563	)		(45,452	)		(665	)		(50,746	)		(2,936	)
	Other income (expense)		(1,561	)		19,998			(7,086	)		1,598			18,360			(15,042	)
	Pre-tax income (loss)	$	519,918		$	926,197		$	756,633		$	798,333		$	432,332		$	507,194
	Expected tax provision at the applicable statutory rate(s)		181,972			21,279			264,822			16,279			151,316			11,012
	Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from:
	Tax exempt income		(12,231	)		-			(15,038	)		-			(20,623	)		-
	Dividend received deduction		(5,910	)		-			(7,809	)		-			(8,351	)		-
	Proration		1,835			-			2,274			-			3,138			-
	Tax audit settlement		-			-			-			-			(2,508	)		-
	Uncertain tax position release		-			-			-			-			(31,912	)		-
	Other		(588	)		1,296			27,238			1,940			5,381			3,119
	Total income tax provision	$	165,077		$	22,575		$	271,487		$	18,219		$	96,441		$	14,131
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
	During 2012 the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") completed its audit of the Company for the 2007 and 2008 tax years.  At the conclusion of the audit, the Company paid additional federal income taxes of $12,747 thousand plus interest of $1,702 thousand. The additional tax liability resulted primarily from adjustments to timing of the Company's utilization of foreign tax credits and, therefore, including interest but net of a permanent benefit from previously unrecorded tax exempt income, this resulted in a $354 thousand income tax benefit.  Also as a result of closing the IRS audit, the Company was able to re-measure its exposure and take down its reserve for uncertain tax positions by $31,912 thousand and related interest of $2,154 thousand, resulting in an income tax benefit of $34,067 thousand.
	The Company identified net understatements in its Deferred tax asset account of $17,520 thousand during 2012.  The understatements resulted from differences between filed and recorded amounts that had accumulated over several prior periods.  The Company corrected these understatements, resulting in a $17,520 thousand income tax benefit included in the income tax expense (benefit) caption in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) and increased net income by the same amount. The Company also increased its Deferred tax asset in its Consolidated Balance Sheets by $17,520 thousand.  The Company believes that the out of period adjustments are immaterial to these financial statements and to all prior periods. As such, the Company has not restated any prior period amounts.
	Deferred Income taxes reflect the tax effect of the temporary differences between the value of assets and liabilities for financial statement purposes and such values as measured by the U.S. tax laws and regulations.  The principal items making up the net deferred income tax assets are as follows for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Loss reserve	$	153,978		$	146,781
	Foreign tax credits		64,902			74,255
	Alternative minimum tax credits		44,954			93,336
	Unearned premium reserve		44,582			45,368
	Net unrecognized losses on benefit plans		40,377			20,944
	Investment impairments		13,841			2,485
	Benefit plan liability		9,873			7,968
	Uncollectible reinsurance reserve		5,237			5,534
	Net operating loss carryforward		3,296			3,805
	Deferred expenses		3,076			2,695
	Other assets		21,048			12,306
	Total deferred tax assets		405,164			415,477
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Net fair value income		128,856			121,784
	Deferred acquisition costs		38,636			39,344
	Net unrealized investment gains		28,108			40,396
	Net unrealized foreign currency gains		-			28,098
	Gain on tender of debt		21,916			27,395
	Other liabilities		15,379			8,374
	Total deferred tax liabilities		232,895			265,391
	Net deferred tax assets		172,269			150,086
	Less: Valuation allowance		(3,296	)		(3,805	)
	Total net deferred tax assets	$	168,973		$	146,281
	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
Balance at January 1	$	-		$	-		$	31,912
Additions based on tax positions related to the current year		-			-			-
Additions for tax positions of prior years		-			-			-
Reductions for tax positions of prior years		-			-			(31,912	)
Settlements with taxing authorities		-			-			-
Lapses of applicable statutes of limitations		-			-			-
Balance at December 31	$	-		$	-		$	-
As a result of closing the 2007 and 2008 IRS audit during 2012, the Company was able to re-measure its exposure and take down its reserve for uncertain tax positions by $31,912 thousand and accrued interest of $2,154 thousand.  Thus, the entire amount of unrecognized tax benefits at January 1, 2012 was recognized and beneficially affected the effective tax rate in 2012.  The Company is longer subject to IRS audit of years before 2009.
The Company recognized accrued interest related to the net unrecognized tax benefits and penalties in income taxes.  During the year ended December 31, 2012, the Company accrued and recognized a net expense/(benefit) of approximately $(2,154) thousand, in interest and penalties.
For U.S. income tax purposes at December 31, 2014, the Company has foreign tax credit carry forwards of $64,902 thousand that begin to expire in 2017.  In addition, the Company has $44,954 thousand of Alternative Minimum Tax credits that do not expire.  Management believes that it is more likely than not that the Company will realized the benefits of the majority of its net deferred tax assets, however, a valuation allowance of $3,269 thousand and $3,805 thousand has been recorded in 2014 and 2013, respectively, against the deferred tax assets in its Everest Canada subsidiary.
The Company has recorded tax benefits related to share-based compensation deductions for dividends on restricted stock, vestings of restricted stock and exercised stock options in 2014 and 2013, respectively of $6,603 thousand and $4,562 thousand to additional paid-in capital in the shareholders' equity section of the consolidated balance sheets.

Reinsurance

Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Reinsurance	13.  REINSURANCE
	The Company utilizes reinsurance agreements to reduce its exposure to large claims and catastrophic loss occurrences.  These agreements provide for recovery from reinsurers of a portion of losses and LAE under certain circumstances without relieving the ceding company of its obligations to the policyholders.  Losses and LAE incurred and premiums earned are reported after deduction for reinsurance.  In the event that one or more of the reinsurers were unable to meet their obligations under these reinsurance agreements, the Company would not realize the full value of the reinsurance recoverable balances.  The Company may hold partial collateral, including letters of credit and funds held, under these agreements.  See also Note 1C, Note 3 and Note 10.
	Premiums written and earned and incurred losses and LAE are comprised of the following for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Written premiums:
	Direct	$	1,227,645		$	1,268,698		$	1,074,206
	Assumed		4,521,342			3,949,936			3,236,331
	Ceded		(492,084	)		(213,813	)		(229,466	)
	Net written premiums	$	5,256,903		$	5,004,821		$	4,081,071
	Premiums earned:
	Direct	$	1,183,498		$	1,207,833		$	1,054,707
	Assumed		4,405,253			3,748,824			3,353,667
	Ceded		(419,616	)		(203,114	)		(243,746	)
	Net premiums earned	$	5,169,135		$	4,753,543		$	4,164,628
	Incurred losses and LAE:
	Direct	$	1,100,037		$	1,173,177		$	926,364
	Assumed		2,160,663			1,833,055			2,017,526
	Ceded		(354,166	)		(205,981	)		(198,625	)
	Net incurred losses and LAE	$	2,906,534		$	2,800,251		$	2,745,265

Comprehensive_Income_Loss

Comprehensive Income (Loss)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Comprehensive Income (Loss)	14.  COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
	The following table presents the components of comprehensive income (loss) in the consolidated statements of operations for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
		2014									2013									2012
	(Dollars in thousands)	Before Tax			Tax Effect			Net of Tax			Before Tax			Tax Effect			Net of Tax			Before Tax			Tax Effect			Net of Tax
	Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary	$	(4,278	)	$	11,653		$	7,375		$	(457,192	)	$	62,834		$	(394,358	)	$	178,405		$	(6,644	)	$	171,761
	URA(D) on securities - OTTI		(10,078	)		3,407			(6,671	)		(1,579	)		140			(1,439	)		2,181			83			2,264
	Reclassification of net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)		34,668			(13,276	)		21,392			(8,388	)		1,411			(6,977	)		(19,606	)		(70	)		(19,676	)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments		(111,145	)		15,728			(95,417	)		(10,462	)		10,300			(162	)		26,484			(3,786	)		22,698
	Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss)		(60,169	)		21,059			(39,110	)		27,442			(9,605	)		17,837			(18,109	)		6,338			(11,771	)
	Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss)		4,647			(1,627	)		3,020			8,889			(3,111	)		5,778			7,377			(2,582	)		4,795
	Total other comprehensive income (loss)	$	(146,355	)	$	36,944		$	(109,411	)	$	(441,290	)	$	61,969		$	(379,321	)	$	176,732		$	(6,661	)	$	170,071
	The following table presents details of the amounts reclassified from AOCI for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,						Affected line item within the statements of
	AOCI component	2014			2013			operations and comprehensive income (loss)
	(Dollars in thousands)
	URA(D) on securities	$	34,668		$	(8,388	)	Other net realized capital gains (losses)
			(13,276	)		1,411		Income tax expense (benefit)
		$	21,392		$	(6,977	)	Net income (loss)
	Benefit plan net gain (loss)	$	4,647		$	8,889		Other underwriting expenses
			(1,627	)		(3,111	)	Income tax expense (benefit)
		$	3,020		$	5,778		Net income (loss)
	The following table presents the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, in the consolidated balance sheets for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013
	Beginning balance of URA (D) on securities	$	201,154		$	603,928
	Current period change in URA (D) of investments - temporary		28,767			(401,335	)
	Current period change in URA (D) of investments - non-credit OTTI		(6,671	)		(1,439	)
	Ending balance of URA (D) on securities		223,250			201,154
	Beginning balance of foreign currency translation adjustments		(4,530	)		(4,368	)
	Current period change in foreign currency translation adjustments		(95,417	)		(162	)
	Ending balance of foreign currency translation adjustments		(99,947	)		(4,530	)
	Beginning balance of benefit plan net gain (loss)		(38,896	)		(62,511	)
	Current period change in benefit plan net gain (loss)		(36,090	)		23,615
	Ending balance of benefit plan net gain (loss)		(74,986	)		(38,896	)
	Ending balance of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$	48,317		$	157,728

Employee_Benefit_Plans

Employee Benefit Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Retirement Benefits	15.  EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
	Defined Benefit Pension Plans.
	The Company maintains both qualified and non-qualified defined benefit pension plans for its U.S. employees employed prior to April 1, 2010.  Generally, the Company computes the benefits based on average earnings over a period prescribed by the plans and credited length of service.  The Company's non-qualified defined benefit pension plan, affected in October 1995, provides compensating pension benefits for participants whose benefits have been curtailed under the qualified plan due to Internal Revenue Code limitations.
	Although not required to make contributions under IRS regulations, the following table summarizes the Company's contributions to the defined benefit pension plans for the periods indicated:
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Company contributions		$	16,484		$	22,536		$	267
	The following table summarizes the Company's pension expense for the periods indicated:
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Pension expense		$	18,543		$	19,348		$	16,542
	The following table summarizes the status of these defined benefit plans for U.S. employees for the periods indicated:
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Change in projected benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year		$	214,059		$	212,159
	Service cost			10,015			11,182
	Interest cost			10,474			8,511
	Actuarial (gain)/loss			55,107			(12,742	)
	Benefits paid			(19,588	)		(5,052	)
	Projected benefit obligation at end of year			270,065			214,059
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year			152,446			114,807
	Actual return on plan assets			7,747			20,155
	Actual contributions during the year			16,484			22,536
	Benefits paid			(19,588	)		(5,052	)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year			157,090			152,446
	Funded status at end of year		$	(112,976	)	$	(61,613	)
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
	Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets for the periods indicated:
			At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Other assets (due beyond one year)		$	-		$	-
	Other liabilities (due within one year)			(5,469	)		(17,000	)
	Other liabilities (due beyond one year)			(107,507	)		(44,613	)
	Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets		$	(112,976	)	$	(61,613	)
	Amounts not yet reflected in net periodic benefit cost and included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated:
			At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Prior service cost		$	(21	)	$	(70	)
	Accumulated income (loss)			(102,671	)		(53,318	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		$	(102,692	)	$	(53,387	)
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
	Other changes in other comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated are as follows:
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year		$	(53,387	)	$	(85,939	)
	Net gain (loss) arising during period			(58,647	)		24,402
	Recognition of amortizations in net periodic benefit cost:
	Prior service cost			49			49
	Actuarial loss			9,294			8,101
	Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year		$	(102,692	)	$	(53,387	)
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
	Net periodic benefit cost for U.S. employees included the following components for the periods indicated:
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Service cost		$	10,015		$	11,182		$	9,370
	Interest cost			10,474			8,511			7,971
	Expected return on assets			(11,288	)		(8,495	)		(7,743	)
	Amortization of actuarial loss from earlier periods			4,341			8,101			6,896
	Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost			49			49			49
	Settlement			4,953			-			-
	Net periodic benefit cost		$	18,543		$	19,348		$	16,542
	Other changes recognized in other comprehensive income (loss):
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to change from prior year			49,305			(32,552	)
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other
comprehensive income (loss)		$	67,847		$	(13,204	)
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
The estimated transition obligation, actuarial loss and prior service cost that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year are $0 thousand, $9,005 thousand and $21 thousand, respectively.
The weighted average discount rates used to determine net periodic benefit cost for 2014, 2013 and 2012 were 5.00%, 4.00% and 4.60%, respectively.  The rate of compensation increase used to determine the net periodic benefit cost for 2014, 2013 and 2012 was 4.0%.  The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets for 2014, 2013 and 2012 was 7.50%, 7.50% and 7.75%, respectively, and was based on expected portfolio returns and allocations.
The weighted average discount rates used to determine the actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligation for year end 2014, 2013 and 2012 were 4.00%, 5.00% and 4.00%, respectively.
The following table summarizes the accumulated benefit obligation for the periods indicated:
		At December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
Qualified Plan		$	200,205		$	147,803
Non-qualified Plan			19,167			29,774
Total		$	219,371		$	177,577
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
The following table displays the plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets for the periods indicated:
		At December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
Qualified Plan
Projected benefit obligation		$	243,525		$	179,512
Fair value of plan assets			157,090			152,446
Non-qualified Plan
Projected benefit obligation		$	26,540		$	34,547
Fair value of plan assets			-			-
The following table displays the plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets for the periods indicated:
		At December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
Qualified Plan
Accumulated benefit obligation		$	200,205			N/A
Fair value of plan assets			157,090			N/A
Non-qualified Plan
Accumulated benefit obligation		$	19,167		$	29,774
Fair value of plan assets			-			-
(N/A, not applicable)
The following table displays the expected benefit payments in the periods indicated:
(Dollars in thousands)
2015		$	9,683
2016			6,297
2017			7,619
2018			9,120
2019			11,350
Next 5 years			63,370
Plan assets consist of shares in investment trusts with approximately 76%, 15% and 9% of the underlying assets consisting of equity securities, fixed maturities and cash, respectively.  The Company manages the qualified plan investments for U.S. employees.  The assets in the plan consist of debt and equity mutual funds.  Due to the long term nature of the plan, the target asset allocation has historically been 70% equities and 30% bonds.
The following tables present the fair value measurement levels for the qualified plan assets at fair value for the periods indicated:
					Fair Value Measurement Using:
					Quoted Prices
					in Active			Significant
					Markets for			Other			Significant
					Identical			Observable			Unobservable
					Assets			Inputs			Inputs
(Dollars in thousands)		31-Dec-14			(Level 1)			(Level 2)			(Level 3)
Assets:
Cash		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-
Short-term investments, which approximates fair value (a)			14,328			14,328			-			-
Mutual funds, fair value
Fixed income (b)			23,948			23,948			-			-
Equities (c)			96,762			96,762			-			-
Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value (d)			10,629			-			-			10,629
Private equity limited partnerships (e)			11,423			-			-			11,423
Total		$	157,090		$	135,037		$	-		$	22,053
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
(a)	This category includes high quality, short-term money market instruments, which are issued and payable in U.S. dollars.
(b)	This category includes fixed income funds, which invest in investment grade securities of corporations, governments and government agencies with approximately 50% in U.S. securities and 50% in international securities.
(c)	This category includes funds, which invest in small, mid and multi-cap equity securities including common stocks, securities convertible into common stock and securities with common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants, with approximately 90% in U.S. equities and 10% in international equities.
(d)	This category consists of a privately held fund of U.S. and international equity funds and may include currency hedges for the foreign funds. The fair value is provided by the external investment manager.
(e)	This category consists of private equity limited partnerships.
					Fair Value Measurement Using:
					Quoted Prices
					in Active			Significant
					Markets for			Other			Significant
					Identical			Observable			Unobservable
					Assets			Inputs			Inputs
(Dollars in thousands)		31-Dec-13			(Level 1)			(Level 2)			(Level 3)
Assets:
Cash		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-
Short-term investments, which approximates fair value (a)			10,590			10,590			-			-
Mutual funds, fair value
Fixed income (b)			24,630			24,630			-			-
Equities (c)			97,305			97,305			-			-
Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value (d)			10,765			-			-			10,765
Private equity limited partnerships (e)			9,156			-			-			9,156
Total		$	152,446		$	132,525		$	-		$	19,921
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
(a)	This category includes high quality, short-term money market instruments, which are issued and payable in U.S. dollars.
(b)	This category includes fixed income funds, which invest in investment grade securities of corporations, governments and government agencies with approximately 50% in U.S. securities and 50% in international securities.
(c)	This category includes funds, which invest in small, mid and multi-cap equity securities including common stocks, securities convertible into common stock and securities with common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants, with approximately 90% in U.S. equities and 10% in international equities.
(d)	This category consists of a privately held fund of U.S. and international equity funds and may include currency hedges for the foreign funds. The fair value is provided by the external investment manager.
(e)	This category consists of private equity limited partnerships.
The following table presents the activity under Level 3, fair value measurements using significant unobservable inputs for fixed maturity investments, for the period indicated:
		Year Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
Assets:
Balance, beginning of period		$	19,921		$	14,616
Actual return on plan assets:
Realized gains (losses) relating to assets sold during the period			75			7
Unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date			331			2,589
Purchases and capital contributions			3,390			2,951
Investment income earned on assets			-			-
Sales and capital distributions			(1,664	)		(242	)
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3			-			-
Balance, end of period		$	22,053		$	19,921
The amount of total gains (losses) for the period included in changes in
net assets attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses)
relating to assets still held at the reporting date		$	256		$	2,582
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
The Company does not expect to make any contributions to the qualified plan in 2015.
Defined Contribution Plans.
The Company also maintains both qualified and non-qualified defined contribution plans ("Savings Plan" and "Non-Qualified Savings Plan", respectively) covering U.S. employees.  Under the plans, the Company contributes up to a maximum 3% of the participants' compensation based on the contribution percentage of the employee.  The Non-Qualified Savings Plan provides compensating savings plan benefits for participants whose benefits have been curtailed under the Savings Plan due to Internal Revenue Code limitations.  In addition, effective for new hires (and rehires) on or after April 1, 2010, the Company will contribute between 3% and 8% of an employee's earnings for each payroll period based on the employee's age.  These contributions will be 100% vested after three years.
The following table presents the Company's incurred expenses related to these plans for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
Incurred expenses		$	4,676		$	3,903		$	3,209
In addition, the Company maintains several defined contribution pension plans covering non-U.S. employees.  Each non-U.S. office (Brazil, Canada, London, Belgium, Singapore, Ireland and Bermuda) maintains a separate plan for the non-U.S. employees working in that location.  The Company contributes various amounts based on salary, age and/or years of service.  The contributions as a percentage of salary for the branch offices range from 3.2% to 14.6%.  The contributions are generally used to purchase pension benefits from local insurance providers.  The following table presents the Company's incurred expenses related to these plans for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
Incurred expenses		$	1,387		$	1,195		$	1,064
Post-Retirement Plan.
The Company sponsors a Retiree Health Plan for employees employed prior to April 1, 2010.  This plan provides healthcare benefits for eligible retired employees (and their eligible dependants), who have elected coverage.  The Company anticipates that most covered employees will become eligible for these benefits if they retire while working for the Company.  The cost of these benefits is shared with the retiree.  The Company accrues the post-retirement benefit expense during the period of the employee's service.
The following medical cost trend rates were used to determine net cost and benefit obligations:  a healthcare inflation rate for pre-Medicare claims of 7.2% in 2014 was assumed to decrease gradually to 4.5% in 2027 and then remain at that level; and a healthcare inflation rate for post-Medicare claims of 6.3% in 2014 was assumed to decrease gradually to 4.5% in 2027 and then remain at that level.
Changes in the assumed healthcare cost trend can have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the healthcare plans.  A one percent change in the rate would have the following effects on:
		Percentage			Percentage
		Point Increase			Point Decrease
(Dollars in thousands)		($ Impact)			($ Impact)
a.  Effect on total service and interest cost components		$	674		$	(518	)
b.  Effect on accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation			8,442			(6,426	)
The following table presents the post-retirement benefit expenses for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
Post-retirement benefit expenses		$	3,196		$	3,801		$	3,141
The following table summarizes the status of this plan for the periods indicated:
		At December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
Change in projected benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of year		$	27,594		$	27,938
Service cost			1,619			1,899
Interest cost			1,320			1,164
Actuarial loss			6,475			(3,040	)
Benefits paid			(502	)		(366	)
Benefit obligation at end of year			36,506			27,594
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year			-			-
Employer contributions			502			366
Benefits paid			(502	)		(366	)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year			-			-
Funded status at end of year		$	(36,506	)	$	(27,594	)
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets for the periods indicated:
		At December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
Other liabilities (due within one year)		$	(639	)	$	(463	)
Other liabilities (due beyond one year)			(35,867	)		(27,130	)
Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets		$	(36,506	)	$	(27,594	)
Amounts not yet reflected in net periodic benefit cost and included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated:
		At December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
Accumulated income (loss)		$	(12,670	)	$	(6,452	)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		$	(12,670	)	$	(6,452	)
Other changes in other comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated are as follows:
		Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year		$	(6,452	)	$	(10,231	)
Net gain (loss) arising during period			(6,475	)		3,040
Recognition of amortizations in net periodic benefit cost:
Actuarial loss (gain)			257			739
Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year		$	(12,670	)	$	(6,452	)
Net periodic benefit cost included the following components for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
Service cost		$	1,619		$	1,899		$	1,677
Interest cost			1,320			1,164			1,033
Net loss recognition			257			739			432
Net periodic cost		$	3,196		$	3,801		$	3,142
Other changes recognized in other comprehensive income (loss):
Other comprehensive gain (loss) attributable to change from prior year			6,218			(3,779	)
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and
other comprehensive income (loss)		$	9,414		$	22
(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
The estimated transition obligation, actuarial loss and prior service cost that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal year are $0 thousand, $843 thousand and $0 thousand, respectively.
The weighted average discount rates used to determine net periodic benefit cost for 2014, 2013 and 2012 were 5.00%, 4.00% and 4.60%, respectively.
The weighted average discount rates used to determine the actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligation at year end 2014, 2013 and 2012 were 4.00%, 5.00% and 4.00%, respectively.
The following table displays the expected benefit payments in the years indicated:
(Dollars in thousands)
2015		$	639
2016			738
2017			794
2018			926
2019			1,054
Next 5 years			7,802

Dividend_Restrictions_And_Stat

Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information [Abstract]
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information	16.DIVIDEND RESTRICTIONS AND STATUTORY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
	Group and its operating subsidiaries are subject to various regulatory restrictions, including the amount of dividends that may be paid and the level of capital that the operating entities must maintain.These regulatory restrictions are based upon statutory capital as opposed to GAAP basis equity or net assets.Group and one of its primary operating subsidiaries, Bermuda Re, are regulated by Bermuda law and its other primary operating subsidiary, Everest Re, is regulated by Delaware law.Bermuda Re is subject to the Bermuda Solvency Capital Requirement (BSCR) administered by the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA) and Everest Re is subject to the Risk-Based Capital Model (RBC) developed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).These models represent the aggregate regulatory restrictions on net assets and statutory capital and surplus.
	Dividend Restrictions.
	Under Bermuda law, Group is prohibited from declaring or paying a dividend if such payment would reduce the realizable value of its assets to an amount less than the aggregate value of its liabilities and its issued share capital and share premium (additional paid-in capital) accounts.Groups ability to pay dividends and its operating expenses is dependent upon dividends from its subsidiaries.
	Under Bermuda law, Bermuda Re is prohibited from declaring or making payment of a dividend if it fails to meet its minimum solvency margin or minimum liquidity ratio.As a long term insurer, Bermuda Re is also unable to declare or pay a dividend to anyone who is not a policyholder unless, after payment of the dividend, the value of the assets in their long term business fund, as certified by their approved actuary, exceeds their liabilities for long term business by at least the $250 thousand minimum solvency margin.Prior approval of the BMA is required if Bermuda Res dividend payments would exceed 25% of their prior year-end total statutory capital and surplus.
	Bermuda Re prepares its statutory financial statements in conformity with the accounting principles set forth in Bermuda in The Insurance Act 1978, amendments thereto and related regulations.  The general business statutory capital and surplus of Bermuda Re was $2,748,030 thousand and $2,712,184 thousand at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The general business statutory net income of Bermuda Re was $698,834 thousand, $634,147 thousand and $475,909 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	Delaware law provides that an insurance company which is a member of an insurance holding company system and is domiciled in the state shall not pay dividends without giving prior notice to the Insurance Commissioner of Delaware and may not pay dividends without the approval of the Insurance Commissioner if the value of the proposed dividend, together with all other dividends and distributions made in the preceding twelve months, exceeds the greater of (1) 10% of statutory surplus or (2) net income, not including realized capital gains, each as reported in the prior year's statutory annual statement.  In addition, no dividend may be paid in excess of unassigned earned surplus.  At December 31, 2014, Everest Re has $357,297 thousand available for payment of dividends in 2015 without the need for prior regulatory approval.
	Everest Re prepares its statutory financial statements in accordance with accounting practices prescribed or permitted by the NAIC and the Delaware Insurance Department.  Prescribed statutory accounting practices are set forth in the NAIC Accounting Practices and Procedures Manual.  The capital and statutory surplus of Everest Re was $2,892,999 thousand and $2,814,337 thousand at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.  The statutory net income of Everest Re was $357,298 thousand, $540,020 thousand and $359,816 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	There are certain regulatory and contractual restrictions on the ability of Holdings' operating subsidiaries to transfer funds to Holdings in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances.  The insurance laws of the State of Delaware, where Holdings' direct insurance subsidiaries are domiciled, require regulatory approval before those subsidiaries can pay dividends or make loans or advances to Holdings that exceed certain statutory thresholds.
	Capital Restrictions.
	In Bermuda, Bermuda Re is subject to the BSCR administered by the BMA.  No regulatory action is taken if an insurer's capital and surplus is equal to or in excess of their enhanced capital requirement determined by the BSCR model.  In addition, the BMA has established a target capital level for each insurer, which is 120% of the enhanced capital requirement.
	In the United States, Everest Re is subject to the RBC developed by the NAIC which determines an authorized control level risk-based capital.  As long as the total adjusted capital is 200% or more of the authorized control level capital, no action is required by the Company.
	The regulatory targeted capital and the actual statutory capital for Bermuda Re and Everest Re were as follows:
		Bermuda Re (1)				Everest Re (2)
		At December 31,				At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014 (3)		2013 (3)		2014		2013
	Regulatory targeted capital	$	-	$	2,154,553	$	1,209,601	$	1,094,605
	Actual capital	$	2,748,030	$	2,712,184	$	2,892,999	$	2,814,337
	(1)  Regulatory targeted capital represents the target capital level from the applicable year's BSCR calculation.
	(2)  Regulatory targeted capital represents 200% of the RBC authorized control level calculation for the applicable year.
	(3)  The 2014 BSCR calculation is not yet due to be completed; however, the Company anticipates that Bermuda Re's December 31, 2014 actual capital will exceed the targeted capital level.

Contingencies

Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Contingencies [Abstract]
Contingencies	17.  CONTINGENCIES
	In the ordinary course of business, the Company is involved in lawsuits, arbitrations and other formal and informal dispute resolution procedures, the outcomes of which will determine the Company's rights and obligations under insurance and reinsurance agreements.  In some disputes, the Company seeks to enforce its rights under an agreement or to collect funds owing to it.  In other matters, the Company is resisting attempts by others to collect funds or enforce alleged rights.  These disputes arise from time to time and are ultimately resolved through both informal and formal means, including negotiated resolution, arbitration and litigation.  In all such matters, the Company believes that its positions are legally and commercially reasonable.  The Company considers the statuses of these proceedings when determining its reserves for unpaid loss and loss adjustment expenses.
	Aside from litigation and arbitrations related to these insurance and reinsurance agreements, the Company is not a party to any other material litigation or arbitration.
	The Company has entered into separate annuity agreements with The Prudential Insurance of America ("The Prudential") and an additional unaffiliated life insurance company in which the Company has either purchased annuity contracts or become the assignee of annuity proceeds that are meant to settle claim payment obligations in the future.  In both instances, the Company would become contingently liable if either The Prudential or the unaffiliated life insurance company were unable to make payments related to the respective annuity contract.
	The table below presents the estimated cost to replace all such annuities for which the Company was contingently liable for the periods indicated:
		At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014		2013
	The Prudential Insurance Company of America	$	142,653	$	144,734
	Unaffiliated life insurance company	$	31,964	$	30,664

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans

Share-Based Compensation Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-Based Compensation Plans [Abstract]
Share-Based Compensation Plans	18.  SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS
	The Company has a 2010 Stock Incentive Plan ("2010 Employee Plan"), a 2009 Non-Employee Director Stock Option and Restricted Stock Plan ("2009 Director Plan") and a 2003 Non-Employee Director Equity Compensation Plan ("2003 Director Plan").
	Under the 2010 Employee Plan, 4,000,000 common shares have been authorized to be granted as non-qualified share options, incentive share options, share appreciation rights or restricted share and share awards to officers and key employees of the Company.  At December 31, 2014, there were 2,751,801 remaining shares available to be granted under the 2010 Employee Plan.  The 2010 Employee Plan replaced a 2002 Employee Plan, which replaced a 1995 Employee Plan; therefore, no further awards will be granted under the 2002 Employee Plan or the 1995 Employee Plan.  Through December 31, 2014, only non-qualified share options and restricted share awards had been granted under the employee plans. Under the 2009 Director Plan, 37,439 common shares have been authorized to be granted as share options or restricted share awards to non-employee directors of the Company.  At December 31, 2014, there were 35,215 remaining shares available to be granted under the 2009 Director Plan.  The 2009 Director Plan replaced a 1995 Director Plan, which expired.  Under the 2003 Director Plan, 500,000 common shares have been authorized to be granted as share options or share awards to non-employee directors of the Company.  At December 31, 2014 there were 391,487 remaining shares available to be granted under the 2003 Director Plan.
	Options and restricted shares granted under the 2010 Employee Plan and the 2002 Employee Plan vest at the earliest of 20% per year over five years or in accordance with any applicable employment agreement.  Options granted under the 1995 Director Plan vested at 50% per year over two years.  Options and restricted shares granted under the 2003 Director Plan generally vest at 33% per year over three years, unless an alternate vesting period is authorized by the Board. Options and restricted shares granted under the 2009 Director Plan will vest as provided in the award agreement.  All options are exercisable at fair market value of the stock at the date of grant and expire ten years after the date of grant.
	For share options and restricted shares granted under the 2010 Employee Plan, the 2002 Employee Plan, the 2009 Director Plan, the 2003 Director Plan and the 1995 Director Plan, share-based compensation expense recognized in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) was $21,196 thousand, $31,844 thousand and $31,984 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.  The corresponding income tax benefit recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) for share-based compensation was $5,819 thousand, $5,458 thousand and $2,792 thousand for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
	For the year ended December 31, 2014, share-based compensation awards granted were 176,159 restricted shares, granted on February 26, 2014, May 14, 2014 and November 19, 2014, with a fair value of $147.035, $157.940 and $170.435 per share, respectively.  No share options were granted during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. For share options granted during previous years, the fair value per option was calculated on the date of the grant using the Black-Scholes option valuation model.  The following assumptions were used in calculating the fair value of the options granted:
		Years Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Weighted-average volatility	-		-		26.16%
	Weighted-average dividend yield	-		-		2.00%
	Weighted-average expected term	-		-		6.69 years
	Weighted-average risk-free rate	-		-		1.33%
	The Company recognizes, as an increase to additional paid-in capital, a realized income tax benefit from dividends, charged to retained earnings and paid to employees on equity classified non-vested equity shares.  In addition, the amount recognized in additional paid-in capital for the realized income tax benefit from dividends on those awards is included in the pool of excess tax benefits available to absorb tax deficiencies on share-based payment awards.  For the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized $401 thousand, $237 thousand and $162 thousand, respectively, of additional paid-in capital due to tax benefits from dividends on restricted shares.
	A summary of the option activity under the Company's shareholder approved plans as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, and changes during the year then ended is presented in the following tables:
										Weighted-
							Weighted-			Average
							Average			Remaining			Aggregate
	(Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands)						Exercise			Contractual			Intrinsic
	Options		Shares				Price/Share			Term			Value
	Outstanding at January 1, 2014			1,190,544			$	85.44
	Granted			-				-
	Exercised			286,120				83.53
	Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired			16,240				85.73
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014			888,184				86.05			5.2		$	76,485
	Exercisable at December 31, 2014			562,684				85.41			4.5		$	48,812
										Weighted-
							Weighted-			Average
							Average			Remaining			Aggregate
	(Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands)						Exercise			Contractual			Intrinsic
	Options		Shares				Price/Share			Term			Value
	Outstanding at January 1, 2013			2,012,164			$	87.25
	Granted			-				-
	Exercised			768,190				90.26
	Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired			53,430				84.23
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013			1,190,544				85.44			5.8		$	83,313
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013			579,417				86.33			4.5		$	40,029
										Weighted-
							Weighted-			Average
							Average			Remaining			Aggregate
	(Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands)						Exercise			Contractual			Intrinsic
	Options		Shares				Price/Share			Term			Value
	Outstanding at January 1, 2012			2,316,276			$	84.39
	Granted			320,454				88.35
	Exercised			581,496				76.51
	Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired			43,070				86.56
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012			2,012,164				87.25			6		$	44,053
	Exercisable at December 31, 2012			995,070				90.09			4.4		$	18,956
	There were no share options granted in 2014 and 2013. The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the year 2012 was $19.21 per share.  The aggregate intrinsic value (market price less exercise price) of options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was $21,202 thousand, $30,050 thousand and $14,603 thousand, respectively.  The cash received from the exercised share options for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $23,899 thousand.  The tax benefit realized from the options exercised for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $6,925 thousand.
	The following table summarizes information about share options outstanding for the period indicated:
				At December 31, 2014
				Options Outstanding										Options Exercisable
								Weighted-
								Average			Weighted-						Weighted-
				Number				Remaining			Average			Number			Average
	Range of			Outstanding				Contractual			Exercise			Exercisable			Exercise
	Exercise Prices			at 12/31/14				Life			Price			at 12/31/14			Price
	$	66.0780- $77.0910			158,810				4.1		$	71.72			158,810		$	71.72
	$	77.0911- $88.1040			354,240				5.7			85.74			190,540			85.56
	$	88.1041- $99.1170			305,180				5.6			90.72			143,380			93.39
	$	99.1171- $110.1300			69,954				3.2			99.77			69,954			99.77
					888,184				5.2			86.05			562,684			85.41
	The following table summarizes the status of the Company's non-vested shares and changes for the periods indicated:
			Years Ended December 31,
			2014							2013						2012
						Weighted-						Weighted-						Weighted-
						Average						Average						Average
						Grant Date						Grant Date						Grant Date
Restricted (non-vested) Shares		Shares				Fair Value			Shares			Fair Value			Shares			Fair Value
Outstanding at January 1,			429,041			$	103.5			357,750		$	87.86			372,453		$	85.12
Granted			176,159				147.44			274,715			132.95			310,370			92.46
Vested			128,549				99.55			187,397			116.83			313,573			89.3
Forfeited			8,906				118.82			16,027			103.29			11,500			84.17
Outstanding at December 31,			467,745				120.84			429,041			103.5			357,750			87.86
As of December 31, 2014, there was $41,818 thousand of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based compensation expense.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.3 years.  The total fair value of shares vested during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, was $12,797 thousand, $21,894 thousand and $28,003 thousand, respectively.  The tax benefit realized from the shares vested for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $4,496 thousand.
In addition to the 2010 Employee Plan, the 2009 Director Plan and the 2003 Director Plan, Group issued 476 common shares in 2014, 586 common shares in 2013 and 518 common shares in 2012 to the Company's non-employee directors as compensation for their service as directors.  These issuances had aggregate values of approximately $75 thousand, $75 thousand and $48 thousand, respectively.
Since its 1995 initial public offering, the Company has issued to certain key employees of the Company 1,696,595 restricted common shares, of which 196,593 restricted shares have been cancelled. The Company has issued to non-employee directors of the Company 100,786 restricted common shares, of which no restricted shares have been cancelled.  The Company acquired 55,756, 94,014 and 148,962 common shares at a cost of $8,531 thousand, $13,180 thousand and $15,307 thousand in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, from employees and non-employee directors who chose to pay required withholding taxes with shares exercised or restricted shares vested. The Company acquired 26,734, 74,175 and 79,086 common shares at a cost of $4,207 thousand, $9,313 thousand and $8,322 thousand in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, from employees and non-employee directors who chose to pay the option grant price with shares.

RelatedParty_Transactions

Related-Party Transactions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Related-Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related-Party Transactions	19.RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
	During the normal course of business, the Company, through its affiliates, engages in reinsurance and brokerage and commission business transactions with companies controlled by or affiliated with one or more of its outside directors.Such transactions, individually and in the aggregate, are not material to the Companys financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Segment_Reporting

Segment Reporting	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Reporting	20.  SEGMENT REPORTING
	The U.S. Reinsurance operation writes property and casualty reinsurance and specialty lines of business, including Marine, Aviation, Surety and Accident and Health ("A&H") business, on both a treaty and facultative basis, through reinsurance brokers, as well as directly with ceding companies primarily within the U.S.  The International operation writes non-U.S. property and casualty reinsurance through Everest Re's branches in Canada and Singapore and through offices in Brazil, Miami and New Jersey. The Bermuda operation provides reinsurance and insurance to worldwide property and casualty markets through brokers and directly with ceding companies from its Bermuda office and reinsurance to the United Kingdom and European markets through its UK branch and Ireland Re.  The Insurance operation writes property and casualty insurance directly and through general agents, brokers and surplus lines brokers within the U.S. and Canada.  The Mt. Logan Re segment represents business written for the segregated accounts of Mt. Logan Re, which were formed on July 1, 2013.  The Mt. Logan Re business represents a diversified set of catastrophe exposures, diversified by risk/peril and across different geographical regions globally.
	These segments, with the exception of Mt. Logan Re, are managed independently, but conform with corporate guidelines with respect to pricing, risk management, control of aggregate catastrophe exposures, capital, investments and support operations.Management generally monitors and evaluates the financial performance of these operating segments based upon their underwriting results.The Mt. Logan Re segment is managed independently and seeks to write a diverse portfolio of catastrophe risks for each segregated account to achieve desired risk and return criteria.
	Underwriting results include earned premium less losses and loss adjustment expenses (LAE) incurred, commission and brokerage expenses and other underwriting expenses.We measure our underwriting results using ratios, in particular loss, commission and brokerage and other underwriting expense ratios, which, respectively, divide incurred losses, commissions and brokerage and other underwriting expenses by premiums earned.
	Mt. Logan Res business is sourced through operating subsidiaries of the Company; however, the activity is only reflected in the Mt. Logan Re segment.For other inter-affiliate reinsurance, business is generally reported within the segment in which the business was first produced, consistent with how the business is managed.
	Except for Mt. Logan Re, the Company does not maintain separate balance sheet data for its operating segments.Accordingly, the Company does not review and evaluate the financial results of its operating segments based upon balance sheet data.
	The following tables present the underwriting results for the operating segments for the periods indicated:
	U.S. Reinsurance	Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross written premiums	$	2,039,578		$	1,809,669		$	1,310,683
	Net written premiums		1,983,800			1,807,067			1,306,463
	Premiums earned	$	1,986,769		$	1,671,513		$	1,416,407
	Incurred losses and LAE		954,525			814,668			1,050,394
	Commission and brokerage		466,291			366,890			350,634
	Other underwriting expenses		45,583			47,176			44,776
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	520,370		$	442,779		$	(29,397	)
	International	Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross written premiums	$	1,582,426		$	1,345,770		$	1,192,306
	Net written premiums		1,336,633			1,327,430			1,188,745
	Premiums earned	$	1,310,903		$	1,289,341		$	1,214,840
	Incurred losses and LAE		748,174			675,362			586,325
	Commission and brokerage		306,229			295,883			300,116
	Other underwriting expenses		34,598			33,910			29,294
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	221,902		$	284,186		$	299,105
	Bermuda	Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross written premiums	$	770,249		$	774,268		$	734,405
	Net written premiums		744,664			765,660			733,751
	Premiums earned	$	715,736		$	737,986		$	680,948
	Incurred losses and LAE		361,792			374,375			408,230
	Commission and brokerage		198,848			179,138			184,357
	Other underwriting expenses		34,923			34,654			30,607
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	120,173		$	149,819		$	57,754
	Insurance	Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross written premiums	$	1,218,372		$	1,268,745		$	1,073,143
	Net written premiums		1,067,333			1,086,217			852,112
	Premiums earned	$	1,030,299		$	1,037,425		$	852,433
	Incurred losses and LAE		811,445			931,466			700,316
	Commission and brokerage		149,777			133,695			117,594
	Other underwriting expenses		118,001			119,283			102,982
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	(48,924	)	$	(147,019	)	$	(68,459	)
	Mt. Logan Re	Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross written premiums	$	138,362		$	20,182		$	-
	Net written premiums		124,473			18,447			-
	Premiums earned	$	125,428		$	17,278		$	-
	Incurred losses and LAE		30,598			4,380			-
	Commission and brokerage		14,441			1,952			-
	Other underwriting expenses		7,295			2,103			-
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	73,094		$	8,843		$	-
	The following table reconciles the underwriting results for the operating segments to income before taxes as reported in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	886,615		$	738,608		$	259,003
	Net investment income		530,570			548,509			600,202
	Net realized capital gains (losses)		84,046			300,227			164,400
	Net derivative gain (loss)		(11,599	)		44,044			(9,738	)
	Corporate expenses		(23,421	)		(24,817	)		(23,976	)
	Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense		(38,533	)		(46,118	)		(53,683	)
	Other income (expense)		18,437			(5,487	)		3,318
	Income (loss) before taxes	$	1,446,115		$	1,554,966		$	939,526
	The Company produces business in the U.S., Bermuda and internationally.  The net income deriving from and assets residing in the individual foreign countries in which the Company writes business are not identifiable in the Company's financial records.  Based on gross written premium, the table below presents the largest country, other than the U.S., in which the Company writes business, for the periods indicated:
	Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
United Kingdom	$	676,490		$	555,332		$	456,724
Approximately 22.7%, 20.6% and 21.1% of the Company's gross written premiums in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, were sourced through the Company's largest intermediary.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	21.SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
	The Company has evaluated known recognized and non-recognized subsequent events.The Company does not have any subsequent events to report.

Unaudited_Quarterly_Financial_

Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data	22.  UNAUDITED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA
	Summarized quarterly financial data for the periods indicated
		2014
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)	1st Quarter			2nd Quarter			3rd Quarter			4th Quarter
	Operating data:
	Gross written premiums	$	1,267,424		$	1,415,362		$	1,666,701		$	1,399,500
	Net written premiums		1,227,589			1,217,487			1,517,580			1,294,247
	Premiums earned		1,144,490			1,272,317			1,389,998			1,362,330
	Net investment income		123,157			131,224			142,143			134,046
	Net realized capital gains (losses)		21,126			59,016			(9,448	)		13,352
	Total claims and underwriting expenses		916,049			1,077,798			1,191,389			1,097,284
	Net income (loss)		302,022			297,925			301,253			357,263
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		(8,089	)		(7,741	)		(26,337	)		(17,140	)
	Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group		293,933			290,184			274,916			340,123
	Earnings per common share attributable to Everest Re Group:
	Basic	$	6.26		$	6.32		$	6.05		$	7.54
	Diluted	$	6.21		$	6.26		$	6		$	7.47
		2013
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)	1st Quarter			2nd Quarter			3rd Quarter			4th Quarter
	Operating data:
	Gross written premiums	$	1,180,790		$	1,260,202		$	1,464,984		$	1,312,658
	Net written premiums		1,149,693			1,212,626			1,389,147			1,253,355
	Premiums earned		1,088,759			1,151,533			1,225,755			1,287,496
	Net investment income		145,781			148,729			127,872			126,127
	Net realized capital gains (losses)		126,735			33,905			44,958			94,629
	Total claims and underwriting expenses		878,636			1,008,558			1,078,549			1,049,192
	Net income (loss)		384,343			275,642			238,527			366,748
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		-			-			(3,768	)		(2,110	)
	Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group		384,343			275,642			234,759			364,638
	Earnings per common share attributable to Everest Re Group:
	Basic	$	7.56		$	5.6		$	4.85		$	7.62
	Diluted	$	7.5		$	5.56		$	4.81		$	7.54
	:

Schedule_I_Summary_Of_Investme

Schedule I - Summary Of Investments - Other Than Investments In Related Parties	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule I - Summary Of Investments - Other Than Investments In Related Parties [Abstract]
Schedule I - Summary Of Investments - Other Than Investments In Related Parties
	SCHEDULE I — SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS —
	OTHER THAN INVESTMENTS IN RELATED PARTIES
	31-Dec-14
	Column A	Column B		Column C		Column D
						Amount
						Shown in
				Market		Balance
	(Dollars in thousands)	Cost		Value		Sheet
	Fixed maturities-available for sale
	Bonds:
	U.S. government and government agencies	$	221,052	$	231,038	$	231,038
	State, municipalities and political subdivisions		783,129		824,472		824,472
	Foreign government securities		1,488,144		1,532,455		1,532,455
	Foreign corporate securities		2,980,716		3,037,315		3,037,315
	Public utilities		227,042		239,627		239,627
	All other corporate bonds		4,715,726		4,783,608		4,783,608
	Mortgage - backed securities:
	Commercial		231,439		241,685		241,685
	Agency residential		2,157,182		2,183,164		2,183,164
	Non-agency residential		2,734		2,731		2,731
	Redeemable preferred stock		23,995		24,972		24,972
	Total fixed maturities-available for sale		12,831,159		13,101,067		13,101,067
	Fixed maturities - available for sale at fair value (1)		2,143		1,509		1,509
	Equity securities - available for sale at market value		148,326		140,210		140,210
	Equity securities - available for sale at fair value (1)		1,082,281		1,447,820		1,447,820
	Short-term investments		1,705,932		1,705,932		1,705,932
	Other invested assets		601,925		601,925		601,925
	Cash		437,474		437,474		437,474
	Total investments and cash	$	16,809,240	$	17,435,937	$	17,435,937
	(1) Original cost does not reflect fair value adjustments, which have been realized through the statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Schedule_II_Condensed_Financia

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant [Abstract]
Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant
	SCHEDULE II — CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE REGISTRANT
	CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
			December 31,
	(Dollars and share amounts in thousands, except par value per share)		2014			2013
	ASSETS:
	Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value		$	26,297		$	31,856
	(amortized cost:  2014, $26,016;  2013, $30,937)
	Short-term investments			297,751			28,443
	Cash			1,398			3,643
	Investment in subsidiaries, at equity in the underlying net assets			7,374,460			6,885,027
	Accrued investment income			239			290
	Receivable from subsidiaries			2,273			728
	Subscription advances to Mt. Logan Re			-			20,000
	Other assets			1,075			1,609
	TOTAL ASSETS		$	7,703,493		$	6,971,596
	LIABILITIES:
	Long term note payable - Affiliated		$	250,000		$	-
	Due to subsidiaries			1,765			2,740
	Other liabilities			608			580
	Total liabilities			252,373			3,320
	SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
	Preferred shares, par value:  $0.01; 50,000 shares authorized;
	no shares issued and outstanding			-			-
	Common shares, par value:  $0.01; 200,000 shares authorized;
	(2014) 68,336 and (2013) 67,965 issued outstanding before treasury shares			683			680
	Additional paid-in capital			2,068,807			2,029,774
	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income
	tax expense (benefit) of $20,715 at 2014 and $57,661 at 2013			48,317			157,728
	Treasury shares, at cost; 23,650 shares (2014) and 20,422 shares (2013)			(2,485,897	)		(1,985,873	)
	Retained earnings			7,819,210			6,765,967
	Total shareholders' equity			7,451,120			6,968,276
	TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY		$	7,703,493		$	6,971,596
	See notes to consolidated financial statements.
	SCHEDULE II — CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE REGISTRANT
	CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
			Years Ended December 31,
			2014			2013			2012
	(Dollars in thousands)
	REVENUES:
	Net investment income		$	824		$	982		$	1,160
	Net realized capital gains (losses)			15			-			286
	Other income (expense)			(574	)		(902	)		(754	)
	Net income (loss) of subsidiaries			1,214,334			1,275,955			843,022
	Total revenues			1,214,599			1,276,035			843,714
	EXPENSES:
	Other expenses			15,443			16,653			14,760
	Total expenses			15,443			16,653			14,760
	INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES			1,199,156			1,259,382			828,954
	Income tax expense (benefit)			-			-			-
	NET INCOME (LOSS)		$	1,199,156		$	1,259,382		$	828,954
	Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
	Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities arising during the period			704			(395,797	)		174,025
	Reclassification adjustment for realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)			21,392			(6,977	)		(19,676	)
	Total URA(D) on securities arising during the period			22,096			(402,774	)		154,349
	Foreign currency translation adjustments			(95,417	)		(162	)		22,698
	Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss) for the period			(39,110	)		17,837			(11,771	)
	Reclassification adjustment for amortization of net (gain) loss included in net income (loss)			3,020			5,778			4,795
	Total benefit plan net gain (loss) for the period			(36,090	)		23,615			(6,976	)
	Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax			(109,411	)		(379,321	)		170,071
	COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)		$	1,089,745		$	880,061		$	999,025
	See notes to consolidated financial statements.
	SCHEDULE II — CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE REGISTRANT
	CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
		Years Ended December 31,
(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss)		$	1,199,156		$	1,259,382		$	828,954
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Equity in retained (earnings) deficit of subsidiaries			(1,214,334	)		(1,275,955	)		(843,022	)
Dividends received from subsidiaries			690,000			665,000			465,000
Change in other assets and liabilities, net			20,612			1,334			(2,414	)
Increase (decrease) in due to/from affiliates			(2,520	)		1,378			484
Amortization of bond premium (accrual of bond discount)			156			241			494
Realized capital losses (gains)			(15	)		-			(286	)
Non-cash compensation expense			1,828			1,087			1,536
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities			694,883			652,467			450,746
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Additional investment in subsidiaries			(73,873	)		(93,967	)		(49,673	)
Subscription advances to Mt. Logan Re			-			(20,000	)		-
Proceeds from fixed maturities matured/called - available for sale, at market value			4,765			7,856			5,290
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at market value			50,010			-			21,955
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at market value			(49,994	)		(413	)		-
Net change in short-term investments			(269,307	)		103,174			(89,247	)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities			(338,399	)		(3,350	)		(111,675	)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Common shares issued during the period, net			37,208			82,258			51,921
Purchase of treasury shares			(500,024	)		(621,915	)		(289,988	)
Proceeds from issuance of long term notes - affiliated			250,000			-			-
Dividends paid to shareholders			(145,913	)		(106,681	)		(100,402	)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities			(358,729	)		(646,338	)		(338,469	)
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH			-			-			-
Net increase (decrease) in cash			(2,245	)		2,779			602
Cash, beginning of period			3,643			864			262
Cash, end of period		$	1,398		$	3,643		$	864
See notes to consolidated financial statements.
SCHEDULE II – CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF THE REGISTRANT
NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
1.)	The accompanying condensed financial information should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related Notes of Everest Re Group, Ltd. and its Subsidiaries.
2.)	Everest Re Group, Ltd. entered into a $250,000 thousand long term promissory note agreement with Everest Reinsurance Holdings, Inc., an affiliated company, as of December 31, 2014. The note will mature on December 31, 2023 and has an interest rate of 1.72% that will be paid annually, on December 15th of each year. This transaction is presented as a Long Term Note Payable – Affiliated in the Condensed Balance Sheets of Everest Re Group, Ltd.

Schedule_III_Supplementary_Ins

Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information [Abstract]
Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information
	SCHEDULE III — SUPPLEMENTARY INSURANCE INFORMATION
	Column A	Column B		Column C		Column D		Column E		Column F		Column G		Column H		Column I		Column J
				Reserve								Incurred
	Geographic Area			for Losses								Loss and		Amortization
		Deferred		and Loss		Unearned				Net		Loss		of Deferred		Other		Net
		Acquisition		Adjustment		Premium		Premiums		Investment		Adjustment		Acquisition		Operating		Written
	(Dollars in thousands)	Costs		Expenses		Reserves		Earned		Income		Expenses		Costs		Expenses		Premium
	31-Dec-14
	Domestic	$	242,178	$	6,022,556	$	1,099,644	$	3,017,068	$	253,304	$	1,765,970	$	616,068	$	163,584	$	3,051,133
	International		69,050		1,778,216		347,261		1,310,903		40,262		748,174		306,229		34,598		1,336,633
	Bermuda		87,180		1,920,041		281,840		841,164		237,004		392,390		213,289		42,218		869,137
	Total	$	398,408	$	9,720,813	$	1,728,745	$	5,169,135	$	530,570	$	2,906,534	$	1,135,586	$	240,400	$	5,256,903
	31-Dec-13
	Domestic	$	224,201	$	5,915,490	$	1,044,609	$	2,708,938	$	256,120	$	1,746,134	$	500,585	$	166,459	$	2,893,284
	International		68,594		1,701,907		275,083		1,289,341		44,325		675,362		295,883		33,910		1,327,430
	Bermuda		70,926		2,055,843		260,253		755,264		248,064		378,755		181,090		36,757		784,107
	Total	$	363,721	$	9,673,240	$	1,579,945	$	4,753,543	$	548,509	$	2,800,251	$	977,558	$	237,126	$	5,004,821
	31-Dec-12
	Domestic	$	183,021	$	6,281,606	$	857,325	$	2,268,840	$	261,727	$	1,750,710	$	468,228	$	147,758	$	2,158,575
	International		62,250		1,825,443		239,671		1,214,840		47,676		586,325		300,116		29,294		1,188,745
	Bermuda		57,996		1,962,006		225,529		680,948		290,799		408,230		184,357		30,607		733,751
	Total	$	303,268	$	10,069,055	$	1,322,525	$	4,164,628	$	600,202	$	2,745,265	$	952,701	$	207,659	$	4,081,071

Schedule_IV_Reinsurance

Schedule IV - Reinsurance	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule IV - Reinsurance [Abstract]
Schedule IV - Reinsurance
	SCHEDULE IV REINSURANCE
	Column A	Column B		Column C		Column D		Column E		Column F
				Ceded to		Assumed
		Gross		Other		from Other		Net		Assumed
	(Dollars in thousands)	Amount		Companies		Companies		Amount		to Net
	31-Dec-14
	Total property and liability insurance
	premiums earned	$	1,183,498	$	419,616	$	4,405,253	$	5,169,135		85.2	%
	31-Dec-13
	Total property and liability insurance
	premiums earned	$	1,207,833	$	203,114	$	3,748,824	$	4,753,543		78.9	%
	31-Dec-12
	Total property and liability insurance
	premiums earned	$	1,054,707	$	243,746	$	3,353,667	$	4,164,628		80.5	%

Summary_Of_Significant_Account1

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Policy)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Business And Basis Of Presentation	A.Business and Basis of Presentation.
	Everest Re Group, Ltd. (Group), a Bermuda company, through its subsidiaries, principally provides reinsurance and insurance in the U.S., Bermuda and international markets.As used in this document, Company means Group and its subsidiaries.
	Effective February 27, 2013, the Company established a new subsidiary, Mt. Logan Re Ltd. (Mt. Logan Re) and effective July 1, 2013, Mt. Logan Re established separate segregated accounts and issued non-voting redeemable preferred shares to capitalize the segregated accounts.Accordingly, the financial position and operating results for Mt. Logan Re are consolidated with the Company and the non-controlling interests in Mt. Logan Res operating results and equity are presented as separate captions in the Companys financial statements.
	The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP").  The statements include all of the following domestic and foreign direct and indirect subsidiaries of Group:  Everest International Reinsurance, Ltd. ("Everest International"), Everest Global Services, Inc. ("Global Services"), Mt. Logan Re, Ltd., Everest Reinsurance (Bermuda), Ltd. ("Bermuda Re"), Everest Re Advisors, Ltd., Everest Advisors (UK), Ltd., Everest Underwriting Group (Ireland), Limited ("Holdings Ireland"), Everest Reinsurance Company (Ireland) Limited ("Ireland Re"), Everest Insurance Company of Canada ("Everest Canada"), Premiere Insurance Underwriting Services ("Premiere"), Everest Reinsurance Holdings, Inc. ("Holdings"), Heartland Crop Insurance, Inc. ("Heartland"), Specialty Insurance Group, Inc. ("Specialty"), Specialty Insurance Group - Leisure and Entertainment Risk Purchasing Group LLC ("Specialty RPG"), Mt. McKinley Insurance Company ("Mt. McKinley"), Mt. McKinley Managers, L.L.C., Workcare Southeast, Inc., Workcare Southeast of Georgia, Inc., Everest Reinsurance Company ("Everest Re"), Everest National Insurance Company ("Everest National"), Everest Reinsurance Company Ltda. (Brazil), Mt. Whitney Securities, Inc., Everest Indemnity Insurance Company ("Everest Indemnity") and Everest Security Insurance Company ("Everest Security").  All amounts are reported in U.S. dollars.
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities (and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities) at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Ultimate actual results could differ, possibly materially, from those estimates.
	All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
	Certain reclassifications and format changes have been made to prior years' amounts to conform to the 2014 presentation.  One reclassification relates to a correction in the manner in which the Company reports distributions received from limited partnership investments in the consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.  Prior to the fourth quarter of 2013, the Company incorrectly reflected all distributions as cash flows from investing activities in its Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.  Starting with the fourth quarter of 2013, cash distributions from the limited partnerships that represent net investment income are reflected as cash flows from operating activities and distributions that represent the return of capital contributions are reflected as cash flows from investing activities.  For the year ended December 31, 2012, $30,718 thousand has been reclassified from "Distributions from other invested assets" included in cash flows  from investing activities to "Distribution of limited partnership income" included in cash flows from operations.  The Company has determined that this error is not material to the financial statements of any prior period.
Investments	B.Investments.
	Fixed maturity and equity security investments available for sale, at market value, reflect unrealized appreciation and depreciation, as a result of temporary changes in market value during the period, in shareholders equity, net of income taxes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the consolidated balance sheets.Fixed maturity and equity securities carried at fair value reflect fair value re-measurements as net realized capital gains and losses in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). The Company records changes in fair value for its fixed maturities available for sale, at market value through shareholders equity, net of taxes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) since cash flows from these investments will be primarily used to settle its reserve for losses and loss adjustment expense liabilities. The Company anticipates holding these investments for an extended period as the cash flow from interest and maturities will fund the projected payout of these liabilities. Fixed maturities carried at fair value represent a portfolio of convertible bond securities, which have characteristics similar to equity securities and at times, designated foreign denominated fixed maturity securities, which will be used to settle loss and loss adjustment reserves in the same currency.The Company carries all of its equity securities at fair value except for mutual fund investments whose underlying investments are comprised of fixed maturity securities. For equity securities, available for sale, at fair value, the Company reflects changes in value as net realized capital gains and losses since these securities may be sold in the near term depending on financial market conditions.Interest income on all fixed maturities and dividend income on all equity securities are included as part of net investment income in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss). Unrealized losses on fixed maturities, which are deemed other-than-temporary and related to the credit quality of a security, are charged to net income (loss) as net realized capital losses.Short-term investments are stated at cost, which approximates market value. Realized gains or losses on sales of investments are determined on the basis of identified cost. For non-publicly traded securities, market prices are determined through the use of pricing models that evaluate securities relative to the U.S. Treasury yield curve, taking into account the issue type, credit quality, and cash flow characteristics of each security.For publicly traded securities, market value is based on quoted market prices or valuation models that use observable market inputs. When a sector of the financial markets is inactive or illiquid, the Company may use its own assumptions about future cash flows and risk-adjusted discount rates to determine fair value. Retrospective adjustments are employed to recalculate the values of asset-backed securities. Each acquisition lot is reviewed to recalculate the effective yield. The recalculated effective yield is used to derive a book value as if the new yield were applied at the time of acquisition.Outstanding principal factors from the time of acquisition to the adjustment date are used to calculate the prepayment history for all applicable securities. Conditional prepayment rates, computed with life to date factor histories and weighted average maturities, are used to effect the calculation of projected and prepayments for pass-through security types. Other invested assets include limited partnerships and rabbi trusts. Limited partnerships are accounted for under the equity method of accounting, which can be recorded on a monthly or quarterly lag.
Uncollectible Receivable Balances	C.Uncollectible Receivable Balances.
	The Company provides reserves for uncollectible reinsurance recoverable and premium receivable balances based on managements assessment of the collectability of the outstanding balances.Such reserves are presented in the table below for the periods indicated.
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014				2013
	Reinsurance receivables and premium receivables		$	29,497			$	29,905
Deferred Acquisition Costs	D.Deferred Acquisition Costs.
	Acquisition costs, consisting principally of commissions and brokerage expenses and certain premium taxes and fees incurred at the time a contract or policy is issued and that vary with and are directly related to the Companys reinsurance and insurance business, are deferred and amortized over the period in which the related premiums are earned.Deferred acquisition costs are limited to their estimated realizable value by line of business based on the related unearned premiums, anticipated claims and claim expenses and anticipated investment income.Deferred acquisition costs amortized to income are presented in the table below for the periods indicated.
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014				2013				2012
	Deferred acquisition costs		$	1,135,586			$	977,558			$	952,701
Reserve For Losses And Loss Adjustment Expenses
	E.Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses.
	The reserve for losses and loss adjustment expenses (LAE) is based on individual case estimates and reports received from ceding companies.A provision is included for losses and LAE incurred but not reported (IBNR) based on past experience.A provision is also included for certain potential liabilities relating to asbestos and environmental (A&E) exposures, which liabilities cannot be estimated using traditional reserving techniques.See also Note 3.The reserves are reviewed periodically and any changes in estimates are reflected in earnings in the period the adjustment is made.The Companys loss and LAE reserves represent managements best estimate of the ultimate liability.Loss and LAE reserves are presented gross of reinsurance receivables and incurred losses and LAE are presented net of reinsurance.
	Accruals for commissions are established for reinsurance contracts that provide for the stated commission percentage to increase or decrease based on the loss experience of the contract.Changes in estimates for such arrangements are recorded as commission expense.Commission accruals for contracts with adjustable features are estimated based on expected loss and LAE.
Future Policy Benefit Reserve	F.Future Policy Benefit Reserve.
	Liabilities for future policy benefits on annuity policies are carried at their accumulated values.Reserves for policy benefits include mortality claims in the process of settlement and IBNR claims.Actual experience in a particular period may fluctuate from expected results.
Premium Revenues	G.Premium Revenues.
	Written premiums are earned ratably over the periods of the related insurance and reinsurance contracts.Unearned premium reserves are established relative to the unexpired contract period.Such reserves are established based upon reports received from ceding companies or estimated using pro rata methods based on statistical data.Reinstatement premiums represent additional premium received on reinsurance coverages, most prevalently catastrophe related, when limits have been depleted under the original reinsurance contract and additional coverage is granted.Written and earned premiums and the related costs, which have not yet been reported to the Company, are estimated and accrued.Premiums are net of ceded reinsurance.
	Payout annuity premiums are recognized as revenue over the premium-paying period of the policies.
Prepaid Reinsurance Premiums	H.Prepaid Reinsurance Premiums.
	Prepaid reinsurance premiums represent unearned premium reserves ceded to other reinsurers.Prepaid reinsurance premiums for any foreign reinsurers comprising more than 10% of the outstanding balance at December 31, 2014 were secured either through collateralized trust arrangements, rights of offset or letters of credit, thereby limiting the credit risk to the Company.
Income Taxes	I.Income Taxes.
	Holdings and its wholly-owned subsidiaries file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return.Foreign branches of subsidiaries file local tax returns as required.Group and subsidiaries not included in Holdings consolidated tax return file separate company U.S. federal income tax returns as required.Holdings Ireland files an Irish income tax return.The UK branch of Bermuda Re files a UK income tax return.Deferred income taxes have been recorded to recognize the tax effect of temporary differences between the financial reporting and income tax bases of assets and liabilities, which arise because of differences between GAAP and income tax accounting rules.
Foreign Currency	J.Foreign Currency.
	Assets and liabilities relating to foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date; revenues and expenses are translated into U.S. dollars using average exchange rates in effect during the reporting period.Gains and losses resulting from translating foreign currency financial statements, net of deferred income taxes, are excluded from net income (loss) and accumulated in shareholders equity.Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions, other than debt securities available for sale, are recorded through the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) in other income (expense).Gains and losses resulting from changes in the foreign currency exchange rates on debt securities, available for sale at market value, are recorded in the consolidated balance sheets in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) and any losses which are deemed other-than-temporary are charged to net income (loss) as net realized capital loss.
Earnings Per Common Share	K.Earnings Per Common Share.
	Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding.Diluted earnings per share reflect the potential dilution that would occur if options granted under various share-based compensation plans were exercised resulting in the issuance of common shares that would participate in the earnings of the entity.
	Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group per common share has been computed as per below, based upon weighted average common basic and dilutive shares outstanding.
				Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)			2014				2013				2012
	Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group per share:
		Numerator
		Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group		$	1,199,156			$	1,259,382			$	828,954
		Less:  dividends declared-common shares and nonvested common shares			(145,913	)			(106,681	)			(100,402	)
		Undistributed earnings			1,053,243				1,152,701				728,552
		Percentage allocated to common shareholders (1)			99	%			99.1	%			99.2	%
					1,042,423				1,142,386				722,717
		Add:  dividends declared-common shareholders			144,447				105,689				99,576
		Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share		$	1,186,870			$	1,248,075			$	822,293
		Denominator
		Denominator for basic earnings per weighted-average common shares			45,377				48,619				51,894
		Effect of dilutive securities:
		Options			425				437				173
		Denominator for diluted earnings per adjusted weighted-average common shares			45,802				49,056				52,067
		Per common share net income (loss)
		Basic		$	26.16			$	25.67			$	15.85
		Diluted		$	25.91			$	25.44			$	15.79
	-1	Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding			45,377				48,619				51,894
		Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding and nonvested common shares expected to vest			45,848				49,058				52,313
		Percentage allocated to common shareholders			99	%			99.1	%			99.2	%
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
	The table below presents the options to purchase common shares that were outstanding, but were not included in the computation of earnings per diluted share as they were anti-dilutive, for the periods indicated:
		Years Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Anti-dilutive options	-		-		894,704
	All outstanding options expire on or between September 21, 2015 and September 19, 2022.
Segmentation	L.Segmentation.
	The Company, through its subsidiaries, operates in five segments:U.S. Reinsurance, International, Bermuda, Insurance and Mt. Logan Re.See also Note 20.
Derivatives	M.Derivatives.
	The Company sold seven equity index put option contracts, based on two indices, in 2001 and 2005, which remain outstanding.The Company sold these equity index put options as insurance products with the intent of achieving a profit.These equity index put option contracts meet the definition of a derivative under FASB guidance and the Companys position in these equity index put option contracts is unhedged.Accordingly, these equity index put option contracts are carried at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets with changes in fair value recorded in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).
	The fair value of the equity index put options can be found in the Companys consolidated balance sheets as follows:
	(Dollars in thousands)
	Derivatives not designated as		Location of fair value		At December 31,
	hedging instruments		in balance sheets		2014				2013
	Equity index put option contracts		Equity index put option liability		$	47,022			$	35,423
	Total				$	47,022			$	35,423
	The change in fair value of the equity index put option contracts can be found in the Companys statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) as follows:
	(Dollars in thousands)
	Derivatives not designated as		Location of gain (loss) in statements of		For the Years Ended December 31,
	hedging instruments		operations and comprehensive income (loss)		2014				2013				2012
	Equity index put option contracts		Net derivative gain (loss)		$	(11,599	)		$	44,044			$	(9,738	)
	Total				$	(11,599	)		$	44,044			$	(9,738	)
Deposit Assets And Liabilities	N.Deposit Assets and Liabilities.
	In the normal course of its operations, the Company may enter into contracts that do not meet risk transfer provisions.Such contracts are accounted for using the deposit accounting method and are included in other liabilities in the Companys consolidated balance sheets.For such contracts, the Company originally records deposit liabilities for an amount equivalent to the assets received.Actuarial studies are used to estimate the final liabilities under such contracts with any change reflected in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).
Share-Based Compensation	O.Share-Based Compensation.
	Share-based compensation option or restricted share awards are fair valued at the grant date and expensed over the vesting period of the award.The tax benefit on the recorded expense is deferred until the time the award is exercised or vests (becomes unrestricted).See Note 18.
Application Of Recently Issued Accounting Standard Changes	P.Application of Recently Issued Accounting Standard Changes.
	Presentation of Comprehensive Income. In June 2011, FASB issued amendments to existing guidance to provide two alternatives for the presentation of comprehensive income. Components of net income and comprehensive income can either be presented within a single, continuous financial statement or be presented in two separate but consecutive financial statements.The Company has chosen to present the components of net income and comprehensive income in a single, continuous financial statement.The guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2011.The Company implemented this guidance as of January 1, 2012.In February, 2013, the FASB issued an additional amendment for the presentation of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component.The Company implemented the proposed guidance as of January 1, 2013.
	Treatment of Insurance Contract Acquisition Costs. In October 2010, the FASB issued authoritative guidance for the accounting for costs associated with acquiring or renewing insurance contracts.The guidance identifies the incremental direct costs of contract acquisition and costs directly related to acquisition activities that should be capitalized.This guidance is effective for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2011.The Company implemented this guidance as of January 1, 2012 and determined that $13,492 thousand of previously deferrable acquisition costs would be expensed, including $10,876 thousand and $2,616 thousand expensed in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2013, respectively.No additional expense will be incurred related to this guidance implementation in future periods.

Summary_Of_Significant_Account2

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule Of Uncollectible Reinsurance Recoverable And Premium Receivables
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014				2013
	Reinsurance receivables and premium receivables		$	29,497			$	29,905
Schedule Of Deferred Acquisition Costs Amortized To Income
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014				2013				2012
	Deferred acquisition costs		$	1,135,586			$	977,558			$	952,701
Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share
				Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)			2014				2013				2012
	Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group per share:
		Numerator
		Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group		$	1,199,156			$	1,259,382			$	828,954
		Less:  dividends declared-common shares and nonvested common shares			(145,913	)			(106,681	)			(100,402	)
		Undistributed earnings			1,053,243				1,152,701				728,552
		Percentage allocated to common shareholders (1)			99	%			99.1	%			99.2	%
					1,042,423				1,142,386				722,717
		Add:  dividends declared-common shareholders			144,447				105,689				99,576
		Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share		$	1,186,870			$	1,248,075			$	822,293
		Denominator
		Denominator for basic earnings per weighted-average common shares			45,377				48,619				51,894
		Effect of dilutive securities:
		Options			425				437				173
		Denominator for diluted earnings per adjusted weighted-average common shares			45,802				49,056				52,067
		Per common share net income (loss)
		Basic		$	26.16			$	25.67			$	15.85
		Diluted		$	25.91			$	25.44			$	15.79
	-1	Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding			45,377				48,619				51,894
		Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding and nonvested common shares expected to vest			45,848				49,058				52,313
		Percentage allocated to common shareholders			99	%			99.1	%			99.2	%
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Schedule Of Anti-Dilutive Options To Purchase Common Shares, Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share
		Years Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Anti-dilutive options	-		-		894,704
Fair Value Of The Equity Index Put Options
	(Dollars in thousands)
	Derivatives not designated as		Location of fair value		At December 31,
	hedging instruments		in balance sheets		2014				2013
	Equity index put option contracts		Equity index put option liability		$	47,022			$	35,423
	Total				$	47,022			$	35,423
Change In Fair Value Of The Equity Index Put Option Contracts
	(Dollars in thousands)
	Derivatives not designated as		Location of gain (loss) in statements of		For the Years Ended December 31,
	hedging instruments		operations and comprehensive income (loss)		2014				2013				2012
	Equity index put option contracts		Net derivative gain (loss)		$	(11,599	)		$	44,044			$	(9,738	)
	Total				$	(11,599	)		$	44,044			$	(9,738	)

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Investments [Abstract]
Summary Of Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) Of Available For Sale, Fixed Maturity And Equity Security Investments			At December 31, 2014
			Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Market			OTTI in AOCI
	(Dollars in thousands)		Cost			Appreciation			Depreciation			Value			(a)
	Fixed maturity securities
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government agencies and corporations		$	221,052		$	10,290		$	(304	)	$	231,038		$	-
	Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions			783,129			41,969			(626	)		824,472			-
	Corporate securities			4,626,002			143,889			(62,906	)		4,706,985			(6,910	)
	Asset-backed securities			340,761			1,691			(1,230	)		341,222			-
	Mortgage-backed securities
	Commercial			231,439			10,675			(429	)		241,685			-
	Agency residential			2,157,182			37,555			(11,573	)		2,183,164			-
	Non-agency residential			2,734			54			(57	)		2,731			-
	Foreign government securities			1,488,144			71,177			(26,866	)		1,532,455			-
	Foreign corporate securities			2,980,716			109,673			(53,074	)		3,037,315			-
	Total fixed maturity securities		$	12,831,159		$	426,973		$	(157,065	)	$	13,101,067		$	(6,910	)
	Equity securities		$	148,326		$	3,831		$	(11,947	)	$	140,210		$	-
			At December 31, 2013
			Amortized			Unrealized			Unrealized			Market			OTTI in AOCI
	(Dollars in thousands)		Cost			Appreciation			Depreciation			Value			(a)
	Fixed maturity securities
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government agencies and corporations		$	160,013		$	2,690		$	(1,678	)	$	161,025		$	-
	Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions			970,735			40,815			(9,022	)		1,002,528			-
	Corporate securities			3,950,887			155,619			(27,090	)		4,079,416			3,169
	Asset-backed securities			169,980			3,485			(422	)		173,043			-
	Mortgage-backed securities
	Commercial			254,765			16,683			(1,007	)		270,441			-
	Agency residential			2,294,719			34,509			(50,175	)		2,279,053			-
	Non-agency residential			4,816			229			(226	)		4,819			-
	Foreign government securities			1,740,337			69,779			(29,347	)		1,780,769			-
	Foreign corporate securities			2,844,912			86,529			(45,628	)		2,885,813			-
	Total fixed maturity securities		$	12,391,164		$	410,338		$	(164,595	)	$	12,636,907		$	3,169
	Equity securities		$	148,342		$	4,336		$	(8,597	)	$	144,081		$	-
	(a)	Represents the amount of OTTI recognized in AOCI.  Amount includes unrealized gains and losses on impaired securities relating to changes in the value of such securities subsequent to the impairment measurement date.
Summary Of Amortized Cost And Market Value Of Fixed Maturity Securities, By Contractual Maturity
			At December 31, 2014						At December 31, 2013
			Amortized			Market			Amortized			Market
	(Dollars in thousands)		Cost			Value			Cost			Value
	Fixed maturity securities – available for sale:
	Due in one year or less		$	1,183,247		$	1,189,416		$	1,059,052		$	1,067,799
	Due after one year through five years			5,646,466			5,726,277			5,565,112			5,740,662
	Due after five years through ten years			2,270,073			2,313,672			2,081,908			2,101,234
	Due after ten years			999,257			1,102,900			960,812			999,856
	Asset-backed securities			340,761			341,222			169,980			173,043
	Mortgage-backed securities:
	Commercial			231,439			241,685			254,765			270,441
	Agency residential			2,157,182			2,183,164			2,294,719			2,279,053
	Non-agency residential			2,734			2,731			4,816			4,819
	Total fixed maturity securities		$	12,831,159		$	13,101,067		$	12,391,164		$	12,636,907
Summary Of Changes In Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) For The Company's Investments
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Increase (decrease) during the period between the market value and cost
	of investments carried at market value, and deferred taxes thereon:
	Fixed maturity securities		$	34,245		$	(449,456	)
	Fixed maturity securities, other-than-temporary impairment			(10,078	)		(1,579	)
	Equity securities			(3,855	)		(16,124	)
	Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax			20,312			(467,159	)
	Deferred tax benefit (expense)			(1,623	)		64,245
	Deferred tax benefit (expense), other-than-temporary impairment			3,407			140
	Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation),
	net of deferred taxes, included in shareholders' equity		$	22,096		$	(402,774	)
Summary Of Aggregate Market Value And Gross Unrealized Depreciation Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities, By Security Type			Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2014 By Security Type
			Less than 12 months						Greater than 12 months						Total
						Gross						Gross						Gross
						Unrealized						Unrealized						Unrealized
	(Dollars in thousands)		Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation
	Fixed maturity securities - available for sale
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government agencies and corporations		$	13,187		$	(20	)	$	26,897		$	(284	)	$	40,084		$	(304	)
	Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions			20,428			(242	)		18,199			(384	)		38,627			(626	)
	Corporate securities			1,245,830			(55,388	)		362,320			(7,518	)		1,608,150			(62,906	)
	Asset-backed securities			192,253			(1,230	)		-			-			192,253			(1,230	)
	Mortgage-backed securities
	Commercial			28,191			(123	)		9,777			(306	)		37,968			(429	)
	Agency residential			141,807			(172	)		678,972			(11,401	)		820,779			(11,573	)
	Non-agency residential			-			-			266			(57	)		266			(57	)
	Foreign government securities			235,725			(15,415	)		139,200			(11,451	)		374,925			(26,866	)
	Foreign corporate securities			567,905			(36,926	)		290,234			(16,148	)		858,139			(53,074	)
	Total fixed maturity securities		$	2,445,326		$	(109,516	)	$	1,525,865		$	(47,549	)	$	3,971,191		$	(157,065	)
	Equity securities			50,285			(4,068	)		73,994			(7,879	)		124,279			(11,947	)
	Total		$	2,495,611		$	(113,584	)	$	1,599,859		$	(55,428	)	$	4,095,470		$	(169,012	)
			Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2013 By Security Type
			Less than 12 months						Greater than 12 months						Total
						Gross						Gross						Gross
						Unrealized						Unrealized						Unrealized
	(Dollars in thousands)		Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation
	Fixed maturity securities - available for sale
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government agencies and corporations		$	74,847		$	(1,033	)	$	8,751		$	(645	)	$	83,598		$	(1,678	)
	Obligations of U.S. states and political subdivisions			92,760			(4,852	)		39,689			(4,170	)		132,449			(9,022	)
	Corporate securities			959,396			(22,331	)		75,946			(4,759	)		1,035,342			(27,090	)
	Asset-backed securities			5,494			(6	)		1,128			(416	)		6,622			(422	)
	Mortgage-backed securities
	Commercial			51			-			11,353			(1,007	)		11,404			(1,007	)
	Agency residential			1,220,845			(40,420	)		264,640			(9,755	)		1,485,485			(50,175	)
	Non-agency residential			1,758			(22	)		1,541			(204	)		3,299			(226	)
	Foreign government securities			409,252			(20,350	)		85,029			(8,997	)		494,281			(29,347	)
	Foreign corporate securities			872,907			(34,819	)		151,748			(10,809	)		1,024,655			(45,628	)
	Total fixed maturity securities		$	3,637,310		$	(123,833	)	$	639,825		$	(40,762	)	$	4,277,135		$	(164,595	)
	Equity securities			127,030			(8,597	)		-			-			127,030			(8,597	)
	Total		$	3,764,340		$	(132,430	)	$	639,825		$	(40,762	)	$	4,404,165		$	(173,192	)
Summary Of Aggregate Market Value And Gross Unrealized Depreciation Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities, By Contractual Maturity			Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2014 By Maturity
			Less than 12 months						Greater than 12 months						Total
						Gross						Gross						Gross
						Unrealized						Unrealized						Unrealized
	(Dollars in thousands)		Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation
	Fixed maturity securities
	Due in one year or less		$	98,021		$	(5,166	)	$	80,002		$	(8,174	)	$	178,023		$	(13,340	)
	Due in one year through five years			1,233,244			(68,124	)		518,613			(12,761	)		1,751,857			(80,885	)
	Due in five years through ten years			679,374			(28,529	)		187,717			(10,734	)		867,091			(39,263	)
	Due after ten years			72,436			(6,172	)		50,518			(4,116	)		122,954			(10,288	)
	Asset-backed securities			192,253			(1,230	)		-			-			192,253			(1,230	)
	Mortgage-backed securities			169,998			(295	)		689,015			(11,764	)		859,013			(12,059	)
	Total fixed maturity securities		$	2,445,326		$	(109,516	)	$	1,525,865		$	(47,549	)	$	3,971,191		$	(157,065	)
			Duration of Unrealized Loss at December 31, 2013 By Maturity
			Less than 12 months						Greater than 12 months						Total
						Gross						Gross						Gross
						Unrealized						Unrealized						Unrealized
	(Dollars in thousands)		Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation			Market Value			Depreciation
	Fixed maturity securities
	Due in one year or less		$	143,098		$	(3,503	)	$	46,691		$	(5,330	)	$	189,789		$	(8,833	)
	Due in one year through five years			1,125,680			(25,365	)		204,779			(11,279	)		1,330,459			(36,644	)
	Due in five years through ten years			810,969			(35,169	)		48,064			(3,844	)		859,033			(39,013	)
	Due after ten years			329,415			(19,348	)		61,629			(8,927	)		391,044			(28,275	)
	Asset-backed securities			5,494			(6	)		1,128			(416	)		6,622			(422	)
	Mortgage-backed securities			1,222,654			(40,442	)		277,534			(10,966	)		1,500,188			(51,408	)
	Total fixed maturity securities		$	3,637,310		$	(123,833	)	$	639,825		$	(40,762	)	$	4,277,135		$	(164,595	)
Summary Of Components Of Net Investment Income
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Fixed maturities		$	462,757		$	473,493		$	489,801
	Equity securities			47,193			45,387			59,156
	Short-term investments and cash			1,635			1,295			1,252
	Other invested assets
	Limited partnerships			40,868			46,921			64,896
	Other			3,619			7,329			3,851
	Gross investment income before adjustments			556,072			574,425			618,956
	Funds held interest income (expense)			9,471			10,613			10,580
	Future policy benefit reserve income (expense)			(1,686	)		(2,770	)		(2,902	)
	Gross investment income			563,857			582,268			626,634
	Investment expenses			(33,287	)		(33,759	)		(26,432	)
	Net investment income		$	530,570		$	548,509		$	600,202
Summary Of Components Of Net Realized Capital Gains (Losses)
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Fixed maturity securities, market value:
	Other-than-temporary impairments		$	(39,502	)	$	(1,052	)	$	(10,022	)
	Gains (losses) from sales			4,408			6,792			14,708
	Fixed maturity securities, fair value:
	Gains (losses) from sales			(3,137	)		201			5,675
	Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments			(1,498	)		307			1,941
	Equity securities, market value:
	Gains (losses) from sales			426			2,648			14,920
	Equity securities, fair value:
	Gains (losses) from sales			156			32,747			21,031
	Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments			123,196			258,569			116,163
	Short-term investments gain (loss)			(3	)		15			(16	)
	Total net realized capital gains (losses)		$	84,046		$	300,227		$	164,400
Summary Of Gross Gains (Losses) From Sales Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Proceeds from sales of fixed maturity securities		$	1,848,268		$	1,113,960		$	998,056
	Gross gains from sales			37,427			38,141			38,144
	Gross losses from sales			(36,156	)		(31,148	)		(17,761	)
	Proceeds from sales of equity securities		$	600,970		$	751,973		$	839,547
	Gross gains from sales			20,900			44,703			57,814
	Gross losses from sales			(20,318	)		(9,308	)		(21,863	)

Reserve_For_Losses_LAE_And_Fut1

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Abstract]
Summary Of Activity In The Reserve For Losses And LAE
		At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross reserves at January 1	$	9,673,240		$	10,069,055		$	10,123,215
	Less reinsurance recoverables		(473,866	)		(602,750	)		(580,998	)
	Net reserves at January 1		9,199,374			9,466,305			9,542,217
	Incurred related to:
	Current year		2,946,396			2,818,490			2,748,925
	Prior years		(39,862	)		(18,239	)		(3,660	)
	Total incurred losses and LAE		2,906,534			2,800,251			2,745,265
	Paid related to:
	Current year		761,788			664,719			633,894
	Prior years		2,089,734			2,353,817			2,220,202
	Total paid losses and LAE		2,851,522			3,018,536			2,854,096
	Foreign exchange/translation adjustment		(160,655	)		(48,646	)		32,919
	Net reserves at December 31		9,093,731			9,199,374			9,466,305
	Plus reinsurance recoverables		627,082			473,866			602,750
	Gross reserves at December 31	$	9,720,813		$	9,673,240		$	10,069,055
Summary Of Incurred Losses With Respect To A&E Reserve On Both Gross And Net Of Reinsurance Basis
		At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross basis:
	Beginning of period reserves	$	402,461		$	442,821		$	499,911
	Incurred losses		142,233			5,599			132
	Paid losses		(68,489	)		(45,959	)		(57,222	)
	End of period reserves	$	476,205		$	402,461		$	442,821
	Net basis:
	Beginning of period reserves	$	386,677		$	425,691		$	480,160
	Incurred losses		137,769			5,400			124
	Paid losses		(66,235	)		(44,414	)		(54,593	)
	End of period reserves	$	458,211		$	386,677		$	425,691
Summary Of Activity In The Reserve For Future Policy Benefits
		At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Balance at beginning of year	$	59,512		$	66,107		$	67,187
	Liabilities assumed		250			103			126
	Adjustments to reserves		4,724			(3,066	)		2,365
	Benefits paid in the current year		(4,667	)		(3,632	)		(3,571	)
	Balance at end of year	$	59,820		$	59,512		$	66,107
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)

Fair_Value_Tables

Fair Value (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Fair Value [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurement Levels For All Assets And Liabilities	The following table presents the fair value measurement levels for all assets and liabilities, which the Company has recorded at fair value (fair and market value) as of the periods indicated:
					Fair Value Measurement Using:
					Quoted Prices
					in Active			Significant
					Markets for			Other			Significant
					Identical			Observable			Unobservable
					Assets			Inputs			Inputs
	(Dollars in thousands)	31-Dec-14			(Level 1)			(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Assets:
	Fixed maturities, market value
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government agencies and corporations	$	231,038		$	-		$	231,038		$	-
	Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions		824,472			-			824,472			-
	Corporate securities		4,706,985			-			4,706,985			-
	Asset-backed securities		341,222			-			341,222			-
	Mortgage-backed securities
	Commercial		241,685			-			233,088			8,597
	Agency residential		2,183,164			-			2,183,164			-
	Non-agency residential		2,731			-			2,731			-
	Foreign government securities		1,532,455			-			1,532,455			-
	Foreign corporate securities		3,037,315			-			3,030,149			7,166
	Total fixed maturities, market value		13,101,067			-			13,085,304			15,763
	Fixed maturities, fair value		1,509			-			1,509			-
	Equity securities, market value		140,210			124,295			15,915			-
	Equity securities, fair value		1,447,820			1,337,396			110,424			-
	Liabilities:
	Equity index put option contracts	$	47,022		$	-		$	-		$	47,022
	There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014.
	The following table presents the fair value measurement levels for all assets and liabilities, which the Company has recorded at fair value (fair and market value) as of the periods indicated:
					Fair Value Measurement Using:
					Quoted Prices
					in Active			Significant
					Markets for			Other			Significant
					Identical			Observable			Unobservable
					Assets			Inputs			Inputs
	(Dollars in thousands)	31-Dec-13			(Level 1)			(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Assets:
	Fixed maturities, market value
	U.S. Treasury securities and obligations of
	U.S. government agencies and corporations	$	161,025		$	-		$	161,025		$	-
	Obligations of U.S. States and political subdivisions		1,002,528			-			1,002,528			-
	Corporate securities		4,079,416			-			4,079,416			-
	Asset-backed securities		173,043			-			167,744			5,299
	Mortgage-backed securities
	Commercial		270,441			-			270,441			-
	Agency residential		2,279,053			-			2,279,053			-
	Non-agency residential		4,819			-			4,472			347
	Foreign government securities		1,780,769			-			1,780,769			-
	Foreign corporate securities		2,885,813			-			2,885,332			481
	Total fixed maturities, market value		12,636,907			-			12,630,780			6,127
	Fixed maturities, fair value		19,388			-			19,388			-
	Equity securities, market value		144,081			127,030			17,051			-
	Equity securities, fair value		1,462,079			1,342,278			119,801			-
	Liabilities:
	Equity index put option contracts	$	35,423		$	-		$	-		$	35,423
Activity Under Level 3, Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs By Asset Type
		31-Dec-14																					31-Dec-13
		Corporate			Asset-backed						Foreign			Non-agency			Agency						Asset-backed			Foreign			Foreign			Non-agency			Agency
	(Dollars in thousands)	Securities			Securities			CMBS			Corporate			RMBS			RMBS			Total			Securities			Corporate			Government			RMBS			RMBS			Total
	Beginning balance	$	-		$	5,299		$	-		$	481		$	347		$	-		$	6,127		$	4,849		$	11,913		$	-		$	426		$	34,842		$	52,030
	Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized)
	Included in earnings		-			1,259			-			73			329			-			1,661			258			(738	)		(112	)		161			-			(431	)
	Included in other comprehensive income (loss)		42			(126	)		(426	)		(5,221	)		(138	)		-			(5,869	)		(717	)		(587	)		(179	)		(38	)		-			(1,521	)
	Purchases, issuances and settlements		1,274			21,303			9,023			4,038			(538	)		29,845			64,945			(624	)		2,858			516			(317	)		-			2,433
	Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3		(1,316	)		(27,735	)		-			7,795			-			(29,845	)		(51,101	)		1,533			(12,965	)		(225	)		115			(34,842	)		(46,384	)
	Ending balance	$	-		$	-		$	8,597		$	7,166		$	-		$	-		$	15,763		$	5,299		$	481		$	-		$	347		$	-		$	6,127
	The amount of total gains or losses for the period included
	in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the
	change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets
	still held at the reporting date	$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs For Equity Index Put Option Contracts
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013
	Liabilities:
	Balance, beginning of period	$	35,423		$	79,467
	Total (gains) or losses (realized/unrealized)
	Included in earnings		11,599			(44,044	)
	Included in other comprehensive income (loss)		-			-
	Purchases, issuances and settlements		-			-
	Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3		-			-
	Balance, end of period	$	47,022		$	35,423
	The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings
	(or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized
	gains or losses relating to liabilities still held at the reporting date	$	-		$	-
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)

Redeemable_Noncontrolling_Inte1

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest - MT. Logan RE (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest - MT. Logan RE [Abstract]
Activity For Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests
		At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, beginning of period	$	93,378		$	-
	Unaffiliated third party investments during period, net		279,200			87,500
	Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests		59,307			5,878
	Dividends paid on third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest		(10,334	)		-
	Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, end of period	$	421,552		$	93,378
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)

Credit_Facilities_Tables

Credit Facilities (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Summary Of Costs Incurred Connection With Credit Facilities
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013				2012
	Credit facility fees incurred		$	659		$	964			$	3,519
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Summary Of Outstanding Letters Of Credit And/Or Borrowings
	(Dollars in thousands)			At December 31, 2014								At December 31, 2013
	Bank			Commitment			In Use			Date of Expiry		Commitment			In Use			Date of Expiry
	Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility	Tranche One		$	200,000		$	-				$	200,000		$	-
		Tranche Two			600,000			444,012		12/31/15			600,000			502,059		12/31/14
	Total Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility			$	800,000		$	444,012				$	800,000		$	502,059
Citibank Bilateral Agreement [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Summary Of Outstanding Letters Of Credit And/Or Borrowings
	(Dollars in thousands)		At December 31, 2014								At December 31, 2013
	Bank		Commitment			In Use			Date of Expiry		Commitment			In Use			Date of Expiry
	Citibank Bilateral Letter of Credit Agreement		$	300,000		$	112		8/30/15		$	300,000		$	119		8/30/14
							3,672		11/24/15						3,672		11/24/14
							70,922		12/31/15						79,336		12/31/14
							2,014		12/31/16						1,045		12/31/15
							149,353		12/30/18						22,800		12/31/17
							-								129,147		3/30/18
	Total Citibank Bilateral Agreement		$	300,000		$	226,073				$	300,000		$	236,119
Citibank Holdings Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Summary Of Outstanding Letters Of Credit And/Or Borrowings
	(Dollars in thousands)		At December 31, 2014									At December 31, 2013
	Bank		Commitment			In Use			Date of Loan	Maturity/Expiry Date		Commitment			In Use			Date of Loan	Maturity/Expiry Date
	Citibank Holdings Credit Facility		$	-		$	-					$	150,000		$	-
	Total revolving credit borrowings						-									-
	Total letters of credit						-									851			12/31/14
	Total Citibank Holdings Credit Facility		$	-		$	-					$	150,000		$	851

Senior_Notes_Tables

Senior Notes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Senior Notes [Abstract]
Schedule Of Outstanding Senior Notes
								31-Dec-14					31-Dec-13
								Consolidated Balance					Consolidated Balance
	(Dollars in thousands)	Date Issued		Date Due	Principal Amounts			Sheet Amount			Market Value		Sheet Amount		Market Value
	5.40% Senior notes	10/12/04		10/15/14	$	250,000		$	-		$	-	$	249,958	$	259,130
	4.868% Senior notes	6/5/14		6/1/44		400,000			400,000			404,892		-		-
Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Senior Notes
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Interest expense incurred		$	21,818		$	13,551		$	13,548

Long_Term_Subordinated_Notes_T

Long Term Subordinated Notes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Abstract]
Schedule Of Outstanding Fixed To Floating Rate Long Term Subordinated Notes
							Maturity Date			31-Dec-14				31-Dec-13
				Original						Consolidated Balance				Consolidated Balance
	(Dollars in thousands)	Date Issued		Principal Amount			Scheduled	Final		Sheet Amount		Market Value		Sheet Amount		Market Value
	6.6% Long term subordinated notes	4/26/07		$	400,000		5/15/37	5/1/67		$	238,364	$	246,312	$	238,361	$	233,292
Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Long Term Subordinated Notes
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Interest expense incurred		$	15,749		$	15,748		$	15,748

Junior_Subordinated_Debt_Secur1

Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable [Abstract]
Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Junior Subordinated Debt Securities
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014		2013		2012
	Interest expense incurred	$	-	$	8,181	$	20,454

Operating_Lease_Agreements_Tab

Operating Lease Agreements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Operating Lease Agreements [Abstract]
Future Minimum Rental Commitments
	(Dollars in thousands)
	2015	$	13,370
	2016		13,975
	2017		12,776
	2018		12,573
	2019		12,392
	Thereafter		20,676
	Net commitments	$	85,762

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Components Of The Provision
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Current tax expense (benefit):
	U.S.	$	143,297		$	116,829		$	46,723
	Non-U.S.		22,575			18,219			14,131
	Total current tax expense (benefit)		165,872			135,048			60,854
	Total deferred U.S. tax expense (benefit)		21,780			154,658			49,718
	Total income tax expense (benefit)	$	187,652		$	289,706		$	110,572
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Reconciliation Of The Difference Between The Provision For Income Taxes And The Expected Tax Provision At The Weighted Average Tax Rate
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014						2013						2012
		U.S.			Non-U.S.			U.S.			Non-U.S.			U.S.			Non-U.S.
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	228,194		$	658,421		$	246,699		$	491,909		$	42,775		$	216,228
	Net investment income		260,501			270,069			274,920			273,589			287,382			312,820
	Net realized capital gains (losses)		78,006			6,040			295,814			4,413			143,326			21,073
	Net derivative gain (loss)		-			(11,599	)		-			44,044			-			(9,738	)
	Corporate expenses		(7,252	)		(16,169	)		(8,262	)		(16,555	)		(8,764	)		(15,211	)
	Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense		(37,970	)		(563	)		(45,452	)		(665	)		(50,746	)		(2,936	)
	Other income (expense)		(1,561	)		19,998			(7,086	)		1,598			18,360			(15,042	)
	Pre-tax income (loss)	$	519,918		$	926,197		$	756,633		$	798,333		$	432,332		$	507,194
	Expected tax provision at the applicable statutory rate(s)		181,972			21,279			264,822			16,279			151,316			11,012
	Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from:
	Tax exempt income		(12,231	)		-			(15,038	)		-			(20,623	)		-
	Dividend received deduction		(5,910	)		-			(7,809	)		-			(8,351	)		-
	Proration		1,835			-			2,274			-			3,138			-
	Tax audit settlement		-			-			-			-			(2,508	)		-
	Uncertain tax position release		-			-			-			-			(31,912	)		-
	Other		(588	)		1,296			27,238			1,940			5,381			3,119
	Total income tax provision	$	165,077		$	22,575		$	271,487		$	18,219		$	96,441		$	14,131
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Net Deferred Income Tax Assets
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Loss reserve	$	153,978		$	146,781
	Foreign tax credits		64,902			74,255
	Alternative minimum tax credits		44,954			93,336
	Unearned premium reserve		44,582			45,368
	Net unrecognized losses on benefit plans		40,377			20,944
	Investment impairments		13,841			2,485
	Benefit plan liability		9,873			7,968
	Uncollectible reinsurance reserve		5,237			5,534
	Net operating loss carryforward		3,296			3,805
	Deferred expenses		3,076			2,695
	Other assets		21,048			12,306
	Total deferred tax assets		405,164			415,477
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Net fair value income		128,856			121,784
	Deferred acquisition costs		38,636			39,344
	Net unrealized investment gains		28,108			40,396
	Net unrealized foreign currency gains		-			28,098
	Gain on tender of debt		21,916			27,395
	Other liabilities		15,379			8,374
	Total deferred tax liabilities		232,895			265,391
	Net deferred tax assets		172,269			150,086
	Less: Valuation allowance		(3,296	)		(3,805	)
	Total net deferred tax assets	$	168,973		$	146,281
Reconciliation Of The Beginning And Ending Amount Of Unrecognized Tax Benefits
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Balance at January 1	$	-		$	-		$	31,912
	Additions based on tax positions related to the current year		-			-			-
	Additions for tax positions of prior years		-			-			-
	Reductions for tax positions of prior years		-			-			(31,912	)
	Settlements with taxing authorities		-			-			-
	Lapses of applicable statutes of limitations		-			-			-
	Balance at December 31	$	-		$	-		$	-

Reinsurance_Tables

Reinsurance (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Premiums Written And Earned And Incurred Losses And LAE
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Written premiums:
	Direct	$	1,227,645		$	1,268,698		$	1,074,206
	Assumed		4,521,342			3,949,936			3,236,331
	Ceded		(492,084	)		(213,813	)		(229,466	)
	Net written premiums	$	5,256,903		$	5,004,821		$	4,081,071
	Premiums earned:
	Direct	$	1,183,498		$	1,207,833		$	1,054,707
	Assumed		4,405,253			3,748,824			3,353,667
	Ceded		(419,616	)		(203,114	)		(243,746	)
	Net premiums earned	$	5,169,135		$	4,753,543		$	4,164,628
	Incurred losses and LAE:
	Direct	$	1,100,037		$	1,173,177		$	926,364
	Assumed		2,160,663			1,833,055			2,017,526
	Ceded		(354,166	)		(205,981	)		(198,625	)
	Net incurred losses and LAE	$	2,906,534		$	2,800,251		$	2,745,265

Comprehensive_Income_Loss_Tabl

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Components Of Comprehensive Income (Loss) In The Consolidated Statements Of Operations
		Years Ended December 31,
		2014									2013									2012
	(Dollars in thousands)	Before Tax			Tax Effect			Net of Tax			Before Tax			Tax Effect			Net of Tax			Before Tax			Tax Effect			Net of Tax
	Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary	$	(4,278	)	$	11,653		$	7,375		$	(457,192	)	$	62,834		$	(394,358	)	$	178,405		$	(6,644	)	$	171,761
	URA(D) on securities - OTTI		(10,078	)		3,407			(6,671	)		(1,579	)		140			(1,439	)		2,181			83			2,264
	Reclassification of net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)		34,668			(13,276	)		21,392			(8,388	)		1,411			(6,977	)		(19,606	)		(70	)		(19,676	)
	Foreign currency translation adjustments		(111,145	)		15,728			(95,417	)		(10,462	)		10,300			(162	)		26,484			(3,786	)		22,698
	Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss)		(60,169	)		21,059			(39,110	)		27,442			(9,605	)		17,837			(18,109	)		6,338			(11,771	)
	Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss)		4,647			(1,627	)		3,020			8,889			(3,111	)		5,778			7,377			(2,582	)		4,795
	Total other comprehensive income (loss)	$	(146,355	)	$	36,944		$	(109,411	)	$	(441,290	)	$	61,969		$	(379,321	)	$	176,732		$	(6,661	)	$	170,071
Reclassification From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
		Years Ended December 31,						Affected line item within the statements of
	AOCI component	2014			2013			operations and comprehensive income (loss)
	(Dollars in thousands)
	URA(D) on securities	$	34,668		$	(8,388	)	Other net realized capital gains (losses)
			(13,276	)		1,411		Income tax expense (benefit)
		$	21,392		$	(6,977	)	Net income (loss)
	Benefit plan net gain (loss)	$	4,647		$	8,889		Other underwriting expenses
			(1,627	)		(3,111	)	Income tax expense (benefit)
		$	3,020		$	5,778		Net income (loss)
Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Of Tax, In The Consolidated Balance Sheets
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013
	Beginning balance of URA (D) on securities	$	201,154		$	603,928
	Current period change in URA (D) of investments - temporary		28,767			(401,335	)
	Current period change in URA (D) of investments - non-credit OTTI		(6,671	)		(1,439	)
	Ending balance of URA (D) on securities		223,250			201,154
	Beginning balance of foreign currency translation adjustments		(4,530	)		(4,368	)
	Current period change in foreign currency translation adjustments		(95,417	)		(162	)
	Ending balance of foreign currency translation adjustments		(99,947	)		(4,530	)
	Beginning balance of benefit plan net gain (loss)		(38,896	)		(62,511	)
	Current period change in benefit plan net gain (loss)		(36,090	)		23,615
	Ending balance of benefit plan net gain (loss)		(74,986	)		(38,896	)
	Ending balance of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$	48,317		$	157,728

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Tables

Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Summary Of Contributions To Defined Benefit Pension Plans
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Company contributions		$	16,484		$	22,536		$	267
Summary Of Pension Expense
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Pension expense		$	18,543		$	19,348		$	16,542
Summary Of Accumulated Benefit Obligation
			At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Qualified Plan		$	200,205		$	147,803
	Non-qualified Plan			19,167			29,774
	Total		$	219,371		$	177,577
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Projected Benefit Obligations In Excess Of Plan Assets
			At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Qualified Plan
	Projected benefit obligation		$	243,525		$	179,512
	Fair value of plan assets			157,090			152,446
	Non-qualified Plan
	Projected benefit obligation		$	26,540		$	34,547
	Fair value of plan assets			-			-
Accumulated Benefit Obligations In Excess Of Plan Assets
			At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Qualified Plan
	Accumulated benefit obligation		$	200,205			N/A
	Fair value of plan assets			157,090			N/A
	Non-qualified Plan
	Accumulated benefit obligation		$	19,167		$	29,774
	Fair value of plan assets			-			-
	(N/A, not applicable)
Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs For Fixed Maturity Investments
			Year Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Assets:
	Balance, beginning of period		$	19,921		$	14,616
	Actual return on plan assets:
	Realized gains (losses) relating to assets sold during the period			75			7
	Unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date			331			2,589
	Purchases and capital contributions			3,390			2,951
	Investment income earned on assets			-			-
	Sales and capital distributions			(1,664	)		(242	)
	Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3			-			-
	Balance, end of period		$	22,053		$	19,921
	The amount of total gains (losses) for the period included in changes in
	net assets attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses)
	relating to assets still held at the reporting date		$	256		$	2,582
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Incurred Expenses Related To Defined Contribution Plans For U.S. Employees
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Incurred expenses		$	4,676		$	3,903		$	3,209
Incurred Expenses Related To Defined Contribution Plans For Non-U.S. Employees
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Incurred expenses		$	1,387		$	1,195		$	1,064
Changes In The Assumed Healthcare Cost Trend
			Percentage			Percentage
			Point Increase			Point Decrease
	(Dollars in thousands)		($ Impact)			($ Impact)
	a.  Effect on total service and interest cost components		$	674		$	(518	)
	b.  Effect on accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation			8,442			(6,426	)
Post-Retirement Benefit Expenses
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Post-retirement benefit expenses		$	3,196		$	3,801		$	3,141
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Summary Of Status Of Plan
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Change in projected benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year		$	214,059		$	212,159
	Service cost			10,015			11,182
	Interest cost			10,474			8,511
	Actuarial (gain)/loss			55,107			(12,742	)
	Benefits paid			(19,588	)		(5,052	)
	Projected benefit obligation at end of year			270,065			214,059
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year			152,446			114,807
	Actual return on plan assets			7,747			20,155
	Actual contributions during the year			16,484			22,536
	Benefits paid			(19,588	)		(5,052	)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year			157,090			152,446
	Funded status at end of year		$	(112,976	)	$	(61,613	)
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Amounts Recognized In The Consolidated Balance Sheets
			At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Other assets (due beyond one year)		$	-		$	-
	Other liabilities (due within one year)			(5,469	)		(17,000	)
	Other liabilities (due beyond one year)			(107,507	)		(44,613	)
	Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets		$	(112,976	)	$	(61,613	)
Amounts Not Yet Reflected In Net Periodic Benefit Cost And Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
			At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Prior service cost		$	(21	)	$	(70	)
	Accumulated income (loss)			(102,671	)		(53,318	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		$	(102,692	)	$	(53,387	)
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Other Changes In Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year		$	(53,387	)	$	(85,939	)
	Net gain (loss) arising during period			(58,647	)		24,402
	Recognition of amortizations in net periodic benefit cost:
	Prior service cost			49			49
	Actuarial loss			9,294			8,101
	Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year		$	(102,692	)	$	(53,387	)
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Net Periodic Benefit Cost For U.S. Employees
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Service cost		$	10,015		$	11,182		$	9,370
	Interest cost			10,474			8,511			7,971
	Expected return on assets			(11,288	)		(8,495	)		(7,743	)
	Amortization of actuarial loss from earlier periods			4,341			8,101			6,896
	Amortization of unrecognized prior service cost			49			49			49
	Settlement			4,953			-			-
	Net periodic benefit cost		$	18,543		$	19,348		$	16,542
	Other changes recognized in other comprehensive income (loss):
	Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to change from prior year			49,305			(32,552	)
	Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other
	comprehensive income (loss)		$	67,847		$	(13,204	)
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Expected Benefit Payments
	(Dollars in thousands)
	2015		$	9,683
	2016			6,297
	2017			7,619
	2018			9,120
	2019			11,350
	Next 5 years			63,370
Fair Value Measurement Levels For Qualified Plan Assets
						Fair Value Measurement Using:
						Quoted Prices
						in Active			Significant
						Markets for			Other			Significant
						Identical			Observable			Unobservable
						Assets			Inputs			Inputs
	(Dollars in thousands)		31-Dec-14			(Level 1)			(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Assets:
	Cash		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-
	Short-term investments, which approximates fair value (a)			14,328			14,328			-			-
	Mutual funds, fair value
	Fixed income (b)			23,948			23,948			-			-
	Equities (c)			96,762			96,762			-			-
	Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value (d)			10,629			-			-			10,629
	Private equity limited partnerships (e)			11,423			-			-			11,423
	Total		$	157,090		$	135,037		$	-		$	22,053
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
	(a)	This category includes high quality, short-term money market instruments, which are issued and payable in U.S. dollars.
	(b)	This category includes fixed income funds, which invest in investment grade securities of corporations, governments and government agencies with approximately 50% in U.S. securities and 50% in international securities.
	(c)	This category includes funds, which invest in small, mid and multi-cap equity securities including common stocks, securities convertible into common stock and securities with common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants, with approximately 90% in U.S. equities and 10% in international equities.
	(d)	This category consists of a privately held fund of U.S. and international equity funds and may include currency hedges for the foreign funds. The fair value is provided by the external investment manager.
	(e)	This category consists of private equity limited partnerships.
						Fair Value Measurement Using:
						Quoted Prices
						in Active			Significant
						Markets for			Other			Significant
						Identical			Observable			Unobservable
						Assets			Inputs			Inputs
	(Dollars in thousands)		31-Dec-13			(Level 1)			(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Assets:
	Cash		$	-		$	-		$	-		$	-
	Short-term investments, which approximates fair value (a)			10,590			10,590			-			-
	Mutual funds, fair value
	Fixed income (b)			24,630			24,630			-			-
	Equities (c)			97,305			97,305			-			-
	Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value (d)			10,765			-			-			10,765
	Private equity limited partnerships (e)			9,156			-			-			9,156
	Total		$	152,446		$	132,525		$	-		$	19,921
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
	(a)	This category includes high quality, short-term money market instruments, which are issued and payable in U.S. dollars.
	(b)	This category includes fixed income funds, which invest in investment grade securities of corporations, governments and government agencies with approximately 50% in U.S. securities and 50% in international securities.
	(c)	This category includes funds, which invest in small, mid and multi-cap equity securities including common stocks, securities convertible into common stock and securities with common stock characteristics, such as rights and warrants, with approximately 90% in U.S. equities and 10% in international equities.
	(d)	This category consists of a privately held fund of U.S. and international equity funds and may include currency hedges for the foreign funds. The fair value is provided by the external investment manager.
	(e)	This category consists of private equity limited partnerships.
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Summary Of Status Of Plan
			At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Change in projected benefit obligation:
	Benefit obligation at beginning of year		$	27,594		$	27,938
	Service cost			1,619			1,899
	Interest cost			1,320			1,164
	Actuarial loss			6,475			(3,040	)
	Benefits paid			(502	)		(366	)
	Benefit obligation at end of year			36,506			27,594
	Change in plan assets:
	Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year			-			-
	Employer contributions			502			366
	Benefits paid			(502	)		(366	)
	Fair value of plan assets at end of year			-			-
	Funded status at end of year		$	(36,506	)	$	(27,594	)
Amounts Recognized In The Consolidated Balance Sheets
			At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Other liabilities (due within one year)		$	(639	)	$	(463	)
	Other liabilities (due beyond one year)			(35,867	)		(27,130	)
	Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets		$	(36,506	)	$	(27,594	)
Amounts Not Yet Reflected In Net Periodic Benefit Cost And Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
			At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Accumulated income (loss)		$	(12,670	)	$	(6,452	)
	Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		$	(12,670	)	$	(6,452	)
Other Changes In Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013
	Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year		$	(6,452	)	$	(10,231	)
	Net gain (loss) arising during period			(6,475	)		3,040
	Recognition of amortizations in net periodic benefit cost:
	Actuarial loss (gain)			257			739
	Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year		$	(12,670	)	$	(6,452	)
Net Periodic Benefit Cost For U.S. Employees
			Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)		2014			2013			2012
	Service cost		$	1,619		$	1,899		$	1,677
	Interest cost			1,320			1,164			1,033
	Net loss recognition			257			739			432
	Net periodic cost		$	3,196		$	3,801		$	3,142
	Other changes recognized in other comprehensive income (loss):
	Other comprehensive gain (loss) attributable to change from prior year			6,218			(3,779	)
	Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and
	other comprehensive income (loss)		$	9,414		$	22
	(Some amounts may not reconcile due to rounding.)
Expected Benefit Payments
	(Dollars in thousands)
	2015		$	639
	2016			738
	2017			794
	2018			926
	2019			1,054
	Next 5 years			7,802

Dividend_Restrictions_And_Stat1

Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information [Abstract]
Regulatory Targeted Capital And The Actual Statutory Capital	The regulatory targeted capital and the actual statutory capital for Bermuda Re and Everest Re were as follows:
		Bermuda Re (1)				Everest Re (2)
		At December 31,				At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014 (3)		2013 (3)		2014		2013
	Regulatory targeted capital	$	-	$	2,154,553	$	1,209,601	$	1,094,605
	Actual capital	$	2,748,030	$	2,712,184	$	2,892,999	$	2,814,337
	(1)  Regulatory targeted capital represents the target capital level from the applicable year's BSCR calculation.
	(2)  Regulatory targeted capital represents 200% of the RBC authorized control level calculation for the applicable year.
	(3)  The 2014 BSCR calculation is not yet due to be completed; however, the Company anticipates that Bermuda Re's December 31, 2014 actual capital will exceed the targeted capital level.

Contingencies_Tables

Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Contingencies [Abstract]
Summary Of Estimated Cost To Replace Annuities For Contingent Liability
		At December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014		2013
	The Prudential Insurance Company of America	$	142,653	$	144,734
	Unaffiliated life insurance company	$	31,964	$	30,664

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-Based Compensation Plans [Abstract]
Assumptions Used In Calculating The Fair Value Of Options Granted
		Years Ended December 31,
		2014		2013		2012
	Weighted-average volatility	-		-		26.16%
	Weighted-average dividend yield	-		-		2.00%
	Weighted-average expected term	-		-		6.69 years
	Weighted-average risk-free rate	-		-		1.33%
Company's Shareholder Approved Plans
										Weighted-
							Weighted-			Average
							Average			Remaining			Aggregate
	(Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands)						Exercise			Contractual			Intrinsic
	Options		Shares				Price/Share			Term			Value
	Outstanding at January 1, 2014			1,190,544			$	85.44
	Granted			-				-
	Exercised			286,120				83.53
	Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired			16,240				85.73
	Outstanding at December 31, 2014			888,184				86.05			5.2		$	76,485
	Exercisable at December 31, 2014			562,684				85.41			4.5		$	48,812
										Weighted-
							Weighted-			Average
							Average			Remaining			Aggregate
	(Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands)						Exercise			Contractual			Intrinsic
	Options		Shares				Price/Share			Term			Value
	Outstanding at January 1, 2013			2,012,164			$	87.25
	Granted			-				-
	Exercised			768,190				90.26
	Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired			53,430				84.23
	Outstanding at December 31, 2013			1,190,544				85.44			5.8		$	83,313
	Exercisable at December 31, 2013			579,417				86.33			4.5		$	40,029
										Weighted-
							Weighted-			Average
							Average			Remaining			Aggregate
	(Aggregate Intrinsic Value in thousands)						Exercise			Contractual			Intrinsic
	Options		Shares				Price/Share			Term			Value
	Outstanding at January 1, 2012			2,316,276			$	84.39
	Granted			320,454				88.35
	Exercised			581,496				76.51
	Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired			43,070				86.56
	Outstanding at December 31, 2012			2,012,164				87.25			6		$	44,053
	Exercisable at December 31, 2012			995,070				90.09			4.4		$	18,956
Share Options Outstanding And Exercisable
				At December 31, 2014
				Options Outstanding										Options Exercisable
								Weighted-
								Average			Weighted-						Weighted-
				Number				Remaining			Average			Number			Average
	Range of			Outstanding				Contractual			Exercise			Exercisable			Exercise
	Exercise Prices			at 12/31/14				Life			Price			at 12/31/14			Price
	$	66.0780- $77.0910			158,810				4.1		$	71.72			158,810		$	71.72
	$	77.0911- $88.1040			354,240				5.7			85.74			190,540			85.56
	$	88.1041- $99.1170			305,180				5.6			90.72			143,380			93.39
	$	99.1171- $110.1300			69,954				3.2			99.77			69,954			99.77
					888,184				5.2			86.05			562,684			85.41
Summary Of Company's Non-Vested Shares And Changes
			Years Ended December 31,
			2014							2013						2012
							Weighted-						Weighted-						Weighted-
							Average						Average						Average
							Grant Date						Grant Date						Grant Date
	Restricted (non-vested) Shares		Shares				Fair Value			Shares			Fair Value			Shares			Fair Value
	Outstanding at January 1,			429,041			$	103.5			357,750		$	87.86			372,453		$	85.12
	Granted			176,159				147.44			274,715			132.95			310,370			92.46
	Vested			128,549				99.55			187,397			116.83			313,573			89.3
	Forfeited			8,906				118.82			16,027			103.29			11,500			84.17
	Outstanding at December 31,			467,745				120.84			429,041			103.5			357,750			87.86

Segment_Reporting_Tables

Segment Reporting (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule Of Underwriting Results For Operating Segments
	U.S. Reinsurance	Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross written premiums	$	2,039,578		$	1,809,669		$	1,310,683
	Net written premiums		1,983,800			1,807,067			1,306,463
	Premiums earned	$	1,986,769		$	1,671,513		$	1,416,407
	Incurred losses and LAE		954,525			814,668			1,050,394
	Commission and brokerage		466,291			366,890			350,634
	Other underwriting expenses		45,583			47,176			44,776
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	520,370		$	442,779		$	(29,397	)
	International	Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross written premiums	$	1,582,426		$	1,345,770		$	1,192,306
	Net written premiums		1,336,633			1,327,430			1,188,745
	Premiums earned	$	1,310,903		$	1,289,341		$	1,214,840
	Incurred losses and LAE		748,174			675,362			586,325
	Commission and brokerage		306,229			295,883			300,116
	Other underwriting expenses		34,598			33,910			29,294
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	221,902		$	284,186		$	299,105
	Bermuda	Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross written premiums	$	770,249		$	774,268		$	734,405
	Net written premiums		744,664			765,660			733,751
	Premiums earned	$	715,736		$	737,986		$	680,948
	Incurred losses and LAE		361,792			374,375			408,230
	Commission and brokerage		198,848			179,138			184,357
	Other underwriting expenses		34,923			34,654			30,607
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	120,173		$	149,819		$	57,754
	Insurance	Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross written premiums	$	1,218,372		$	1,268,745		$	1,073,143
	Net written premiums		1,067,333			1,086,217			852,112
	Premiums earned	$	1,030,299		$	1,037,425		$	852,433
	Incurred losses and LAE		811,445			931,466			700,316
	Commission and brokerage		149,777			133,695			117,594
	Other underwriting expenses		118,001			119,283			102,982
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	(48,924	)	$	(147,019	)	$	(68,459	)
	Mt. Logan Re	Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross written premiums	$	138,362		$	20,182		$	-
	Net written premiums		124,473			18,447			-
	Premiums earned	$	125,428		$	17,278		$	-
	Incurred losses and LAE		30,598			4,380			-
	Commission and brokerage		14,441			1,952			-
	Other underwriting expenses		7,295			2,103			-
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	73,094		$	8,843		$	-
Schedule Of Underwriting Results For Operating Segments To Income (Loss) Before Taxes
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	Underwriting gain (loss)	$	886,615		$	738,608		$	259,003
	Net investment income		530,570			548,509			600,202
	Net realized capital gains (losses)		84,046			300,227			164,400
	Net derivative gain (loss)		(11,599	)		44,044			(9,738	)
	Corporate expenses		(23,421	)		(24,817	)		(23,976	)
	Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense		(38,533	)		(46,118	)		(53,683	)
	Other income (expense)		18,437			(5,487	)		3,318
	Income (loss) before taxes	$	1,446,115		$	1,554,966		$	939,526
Schedule Of Gross Written Premiums Derived From Largest Non-U.S. Market
		Years Ended December 31,
	(Dollars in thousands)	2014			2013			2012
	United Kingdom	$	676,490		$	555,332		$	456,724

Unaudited_Quarterly_Financial_1

Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Summary Of Quarterly Financial Data
		2014
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)	1st Quarter			2nd Quarter			3rd Quarter			4th Quarter
	Operating data:
	Gross written premiums	$	1,267,424		$	1,415,362		$	1,666,701		$	1,399,500
	Net written premiums		1,227,589			1,217,487			1,517,580			1,294,247
	Premiums earned		1,144,490			1,272,317			1,389,998			1,362,330
	Net investment income		123,157			131,224			142,143			134,046
	Net realized capital gains (losses)		21,126			59,016			(9,448	)		13,352
	Total claims and underwriting expenses		916,049			1,077,798			1,191,389			1,097,284
	Net income (loss)		302,022			297,925			301,253			357,263
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		(8,089	)		(7,741	)		(26,337	)		(17,140	)
	Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group		293,933			290,184			274,916			340,123
	Earnings per common share attributable to Everest Re Group:
	Basic	$	6.26		$	6.32		$	6.05		$	7.54
	Diluted	$	6.21		$	6.26		$	6		$	7.47
		2013
	(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)	1st Quarter			2nd Quarter			3rd Quarter			4th Quarter
	Operating data:
	Gross written premiums	$	1,180,790		$	1,260,202		$	1,464,984		$	1,312,658
	Net written premiums		1,149,693			1,212,626			1,389,147			1,253,355
	Premiums earned		1,088,759			1,151,533			1,225,755			1,287,496
	Net investment income		145,781			148,729			127,872			126,127
	Net realized capital gains (losses)		126,735			33,905			44,958			94,629
	Total claims and underwriting expenses		878,636			1,008,558			1,078,549			1,049,192
	Net income (loss)		384,343			275,642			238,527			366,748
	Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		-			-			(3,768	)		(2,110	)
	Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group		384,343			275,642			234,759			364,638
	Earnings per common share attributable to Everest Re Group:
	Basic	$	7.56		$	5.6		$	4.85		$	7.62
	Diluted	$	7.5		$	5.56		$	4.81		$	7.54

Summary_Of_Significant_Account3

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
	segment
	item
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Distribution of limited partnership income	$51,120,000	$56,982,000	$30,718,000
Minimum percent of prepaid reinsurance premiums for any foreign reinsurers that were collateralized	10.00%
Number of Operating Segments	5
Equity index put option contracts sold	7
Derivatives, number of indices	2
Deferred acquisition costs	398,408,000	363,721,000
Supplementary Insurance Information, Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs	1,135,586,000	977,558,000	952,701,000
Additional expense incurred related to guidance		0
Authoritative Guidance [Member]
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Deferred acquisition costs		13,492,000
Supplementary Insurance Information, Amortization of Deferred Policy Acquisition Costs		$2,616,000	$10,876,000

Summary_Of_Significant_Account4

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Uncollectible Reinsurance Recoverable And Premium Receivables) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Reinsurance recoverable and premium receivables	$29,497	$29,905

Summary_Of_Significant_Account5

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Deferred Acquisition Costs Amortized To Income) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Deferred acquisition costs	$1,135,586	$977,558	$952,701

Summary_Of_Significant_Account6

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Net Income (Loss) Per Common Share) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group	$340,123	$274,916	$290,184	$293,933	$364,638	$234,759	$275,642	$384,343	$1,199,156	$1,259,382	$828,954
Less: dividends declared-common shares and nonvested common shares									-145,913	-106,681	-100,402
Undistributed earnings									1,053,243	1,152,701	728,552
Percentage allocated to common shareholders									99.00%	99.10%	99.20%
Net income (loss) available to common stockholders, total									1,042,423	1,142,386	722,717
Add: dividends declared-common shareholders									144,447	105,689	99,576
Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per common share									$1,186,870	$1,248,075	$822,293
Denominator for basic earnings per weighted-average common shares									45,377	48,619	51,894
Effect of dilutive securities: Options									425	437	173
Denominator for diluted earnings per adjusted weighted-average common shares									45,802	49,056	52,067
Basic	$7.54	$6.05	$6.32	$6.26	$7.62	$4.85	$5.60	$7.56	$26.16	$25.67	$15.85
Diluted	$7.47	$6	$6.26	$6.21	$7.54	$4.81	$5.56	$7.50	$25.91	$25.44	$15.79
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding									45,377	48,619	51,894
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding and nonvested common shares expected to vest									45,848	49,058	52,313

Summary_Of_Significant_Account7

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Anti-Dilutive Options To Purchase Common Shares, Excluded From Computation Of Earnings Per Share) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Anti-dilutive options			894,704

Summary_Of_Significant_Account8

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Fair Value Of The Equity Index Put Options) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Line Items]
Equity index put option liability	$47,022	$35,423
Equity Index Put Option Contracts [Member] | Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member]
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Line Items]
Equity index put option liability	$47,022	$35,423

Summary_Of_Significant_Account9

Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies (Changes In Fair Value Of The Equity Index Put Option Contracts) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Line Items]
Net derivative gain (loss)	($11,599)	$44,044	($9,738)
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments [Member] | Equity Index Put Option Contracts [Member]
Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Line Items]
Net derivative gain (loss)	($11,599)	$44,044	($9,738)

Investments_Narrative_Details

Investments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Percentage threshold that triggers a review of available for sale debt securities for declines in market value	80.00%
Aggregate market value of investments in unrealized loss position	$4,095,470	$4,404,165
Gross unrealized losses on investments in unrealized loss position	169,012	173,192
Percentage threshold of unrealized losses not exceeded by any one single issuer	0.20%	0.40%
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	113,584	132,430
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, greater than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	55,428	40,762
Additional contractual commitments	403,003
Securities with a carrying value	1,434,105
Conversion Of Available For Sale Securities Equity Market Value To Available For Sale Securities Debt Market Value			92,981
Minimum [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Limited partnership financial reporting lag time, months	1 month
Maximum [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Limited partnership financial reporting lag time, months	3 months
Investment Grade [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation		112,658
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, greater than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	42,884	38,964
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Aggregate market value of investments in unrealized loss position	3,971,191	4,277,135
Gross unrealized losses on investments in unrealized loss position	157,065	164,595
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	109,516	123,833
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, greater than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	47,549	40,762
Energy Sector [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	58,891
Foreign Exchange Losses [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	34,687
Sub-prime and Alt-A Loans [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, greater than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	$15	$273

Investments_Summary_Of_Unreali

Investments (Summary Of Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) Of Available For Sale, Fixed Maturity And Equity Security Investments) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$12,831,159	$12,391,164
Unrealized Appreciation	426,973	410,338
Unrealized Depreciation	-157,065	-164,595
Market Value	13,101,067	12,636,907
OTTI in AOCI	-6,910	3,169
U.S. Treasury Securities And Obligations Of U.S. Government Agencies And Corporations [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	221,052	160,013
Unrealized Appreciation	10,290	2,690
Unrealized Depreciation	-304	-1,678
Market Value	231,038	161,025
Obligations Of U.S. States And Political Subdivisions [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	783,129	970,735
Unrealized Appreciation	41,969	40,815
Unrealized Depreciation	-626	-9,022
Market Value	824,472	1,002,528
Corporate Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	4,626,002	3,950,887
Unrealized Appreciation	143,889	155,619
Unrealized Depreciation	-62,906	-27,090
Market Value	4,706,985	4,079,416
OTTI in AOCI	-6,910	3,169
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	340,761	169,980
Unrealized Appreciation	1,691	3,485
Unrealized Depreciation	-1,230	-422
Market Value	341,222	173,043
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	231,439	254,765
Unrealized Appreciation	10,675	16,683
Unrealized Depreciation	-429	-1,007
Market Value	241,685	270,441
Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	2,157,182	2,294,719
Unrealized Appreciation	37,555	34,509
Unrealized Depreciation	-11,573	-50,175
Market Value	2,183,164	2,279,053
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	2,734	4,816
Unrealized Appreciation	54	229
Unrealized Depreciation	-57	-226
Market Value	2,731	4,819
Foreign Government Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	1,488,144	1,740,337
Unrealized Appreciation	71,177	69,779
Unrealized Depreciation	-26,866	-29,347
Market Value	1,532,455	1,780,769
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	2,980,716	2,844,912
Unrealized Appreciation	109,673	86,529
Unrealized Depreciation	-53,074	-45,628
Market Value	3,037,315	2,885,813
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	148,326	148,342
Unrealized Appreciation	3,831	4,336
Unrealized Depreciation	-11,947	-8,597
Market Value	$140,210	$144,081

Investments_Summary_Of_Amortiz

Investments (Summary Of Amortized Cost And Market Value Of Fixed Maturity Securities, By Contractual Maturity) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Amortized Cost	$12,831,159	$12,391,164
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Market Value	13,101,067	12,636,907
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due in one year or less, Amortized Cost	1,183,247	1,059,052
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after one year through five years, Amortized Cost	5,646,466	5,565,112
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after five years through ten years, Amortized Cost	2,270,073	2,081,908
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after ten years, Amortized Cost	999,257	960,812
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due in one year or less, Market Value	1,189,416	1,067,799
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after one year through five years, Market Value	5,726,277	5,740,662
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after five years through ten years, Market Value	2,313,672	2,101,234
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Due after ten years, Market Value	1,102,900	999,856
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Amortized Cost	340,761	169,980
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Market Value	341,222	173,043
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Amortized Cost	231,439	254,765
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Market Value	241,685	270,441
Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Amortized Cost	2,157,182	2,294,719
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Market Value	2,183,164	2,279,053
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Amortized Cost	2,734	4,816
Fixed maturity securities - available for sale, Market Value	$2,731	$4,819

Investments_Summary_Of_Changes

Investments (Summary Of Changes In Net Unrealized Appreciation (Depreciation) For The Company's Investments) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax	$20,312	($467,159)
Deferred tax benefit (expense)	-1,623	64,245
Deferred tax benefit (expense), other-than-temporary impairment	3,407	140
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), net of deferred taxes, included in shareholders' equity	22,096	-402,774
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax	34,245	-449,456
Fixed Maturity Securities, Other-Than-Temporary Impairment [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax	-10,078	-1,579
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation), pre-tax	($3,855)	($16,124)

Investments_Summary_Of_Aggrega

Investments (Summary Of Aggregate Market Value And Gross Unrealized Depreciation Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities, By Security Type) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	$2,495,611	$3,764,340
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-113,584	-132,430
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	1,599,859	639,825
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-55,428	-40,762
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	4,095,470	4,404,165
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-169,012	-173,192
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	2,445,326	3,637,310
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-109,516	-123,833
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	1,525,865	639,825
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-47,549	-40,762
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	3,971,191	4,277,135
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-157,065	-164,595
U.S. Treasury Securities And Obligations Of U.S. Government Agencies And Corporations [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	13,187	74,847
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-20	-1,033
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	26,897	8,751
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-284	-645
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	40,084	83,598
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-304	-1,678
Obligations Of U.S. States And Political Subdivisions [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	20,428	92,760
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-242	-4,852
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	18,199	39,689
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-384	-4,170
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	38,627	132,449
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-626	-9,022
Corporate Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	1,245,830	959,396
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-55,388	-22,331
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	362,320	75,946
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-7,518	-4,759
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	1,608,150	1,035,342
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-62,906	-27,090
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	192,253	5,494
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-1,230	-6
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value		1,128
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation		-416
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	192,253	6,622
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-1,230	-422
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	28,191	51
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-123
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	9,777	11,353
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-306	-1,007
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	37,968	11,404
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-429	-1,007
Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	141,807	1,220,845
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-172	-40,420
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	678,972	264,640
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-11,401	-9,755
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	820,779	1,485,485
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-11,573	-50,175
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value		1,758
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation		-22
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	266	1,541
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-57	-204
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	266	3,299
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-57	-226
Foreign Government Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	235,725	409,252
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-15,415	-20,350
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	139,200	85,029
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-11,451	-8,997
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	374,925	494,281
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-26,866	-29,347
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	567,905	872,907
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-36,926	-34,819
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	290,234	151,748
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-16,148	-10,809
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	858,139	1,024,655
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-53,074	-45,628
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Less than 12 months, Market Value	50,285	127,030
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-4,068	-8,597
Fixed maturity securities, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	73,994
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-7,879
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	124,279	127,030
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	($11,947)	($8,597)

Investments_Summary_Of_Aggrega1

Investments (Summary Of Aggregate Market Value And Gross Unrealized Depreciation Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities, By Contractual Maturity) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	$2,495,611	$3,764,340
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-113,584	-132,430
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	1,599,859	639,825
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-55,428	-40,762
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	4,095,470	4,404,165
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-169,012	-173,192
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	2,445,326	3,637,310
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-109,516	-123,833
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	1,525,865	639,825
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-47,549	-40,762
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	3,971,191	4,277,135
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-157,065	-164,595
Due In One Year Or Less [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	98,021	143,098
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-5,166	-3,503
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	80,002	46,691
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-8,174	-5,330
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	178,023	189,789
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-13,340	-8,833
Due In One Year Through Five Years [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	1,233,244	1,125,680
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-68,124	-25,365
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	518,613	204,779
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-12,761	-11,279
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	1,751,857	1,330,459
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-80,885	-36,644
Due In Five Years Through Ten Years [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	679,374	810,969
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-28,529	-35,169
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	187,717	48,064
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-10,734	-3,844
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	867,091	859,033
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-39,263	-39,013
Due After Ten Years [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	72,436	329,415
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-6,172	-19,348
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	50,518	61,629
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-4,116	-8,927
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	122,954	391,044
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-10,288	-28,275
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	192,253	5,494
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-1,230	-6
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value		1,128
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation		-416
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	192,253	6,622
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	-1,230	-422
Mortgage Backed Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Less than 12 months, Market Value	169,998	1,222,654
Fixed maturity securities, duration of unrealized loss, less than 12 months, gross unrealized depreciation	-295	-40,442
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Market Value	689,015	277,534
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Greater than 12 months, Gross Unrealized Depreciation	-11,764	-10,966
Fixed maturity securities, Total, Market Value	859,013	1,500,188
Fixed maturity securities, Duration of Unrealized Loss, Total, Gross Unrealized Depreciation, Total	($12,059)	($51,408)

Investments_Summary_Of_Compone

Investments (Summary Of Components Of Net Investment Income) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	$556,072	$574,425	$618,956
Funds held interest income (expense)	9,471	10,613	10,580
Future policy benefit reserve income (expense)	-1,686	-2,770	-2,902
Gross investment income	563,857	582,268	626,634
Investment expenses	-33,287	-33,759	-26,432
Net investment income	530,570	548,509	600,202
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	462,757	473,493	489,801
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	47,193	45,387	59,156
Short-Term Investments And Cash [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	1,635	1,295	1,252
Limited Partnerships [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	40,868	46,921	64,896
Other [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gross investment income before adjustments	$3,619	$7,329	$3,851

Investments_Summary_Of_Compone1

Investments (Summary Of Components Of Net Realized Capital Gains (Losses)) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairments									($39,502)	($1,052)	($10,022)
Total net realized capital gains (losses)	13,352	-9,448	59,016	21,126	94,629	44,958	33,905	126,735	84,046	300,227	164,400
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member] | Market Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Other-than-temporary impairments									-39,502	-1,052	-10,022
Gains (losses) from sales									4,408	6,792	14,708
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gains (losses) from sales									-3,137	201	5,675
Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments									-1,498	307	1,941
Equity Securities [Member] | Market Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gains (losses) from sales									426	2,648	14,920
Equity Securities [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gains (losses) from sales									156	32,747	21,031
Gains (losses) from fair value adjustments									123,196	258,569	116,163
Short-Term Investments And Cash [Member] | Fair Value [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Gains (losses) from sales									($3)	$15	($16)

Investments_Summary_Of_Gross_G

Investments (Summary Of Gross Gains (Losses) From Sales Of Fixed Maturity And Equity Securities) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Fixed Maturity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Proceeds from sales of securities	$1,848,268	$1,113,960	$998,056
Gross gains from sales	37,427	38,141	38,144
Gross losses from sales	-36,156	-31,148	-17,761
Equity Securities [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Proceeds from sales of securities	600,970	751,973	839,547
Gross gains from sales	20,900	44,703	57,814
Gross losses from sales	($20,318)	($9,308)	($21,863)

Reserve_For_Losses_LAE_And_Fut2

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Prior years' reserves	($39,862)	($18,239)	($3,660)
Increase (decrease) in reinsurance business	-202,418	-148,788	-57,205
Increase (decrease) in insurance business	24,973	130,548	53,545
Reinsurance receivables	670,854	540,883
Retrocession percent	5.00%
Contracts of insurance and reinsurance received claims during the past three years, in years	20 years
C. V. Starr [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables	102,284
Reinsurance receivable, percent	15.20%
Resolution Group Reinsurance (Barbados) Limited [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables	74,960
Reinsurance receivable, percent	11.20%
Federal Crop Insurance Company [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables	64,591
Reinsurance receivable, percent	9.60%
Zurich Vericherungs Gesellschaft [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables	60,680
Reinsurance receivable, percent	9.00%
Transatlantic Reinsurance Company [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables	39,467
Reinsurance receivable, percent	5.90%
Hannover Rueck SE [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables	37,224
Reinsurance receivable, percent	5.50%
Axis Reinsurance Company [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables	35,198
Reinsurance receivable, percent	5.20%
Axa Seguros Gen SA De Seguros Y Reaseguros [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Reinsurance receivables	33,903
Reinsurance receivable, percent	5.10%
A&E [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Partially offset, related to development on A&E reserves	-137,769
Mt. Logan Re [Member]
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Line Items]
Partially offset, related to development on A&E reserves	$186

Reserve_For_Losses_LAE_And_Fut3

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve (Summary Of Activity In The Reserve For Losses And LAE) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2010
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Abstract]
Gross reserves at January 1	$9,673,240	$10,069,055	$10,123,215
Less reinsurance recoverable	473,866	602,750	580,998	473,866
Net reserves at January 1	9,199,374	9,466,305	9,542,217
Incurred related to: Current year	2,946,396	2,818,490	2,748,925
Incurred related to: Prior years	-39,862	-18,239	-3,660
Total incurred losses and LAE	2,906,534	2,800,251	2,745,265
Paid related to: Current year	761,788	664,719	633,894
Paid related to: Prior years	2,089,734	2,353,817	2,220,202
Total paid losses and LAE	2,851,522	3,018,536	2,854,096
Foreign exchange/translation adjustment	-160,655	-48,646	32,919
Net reserves at December 31	9,093,731	9,199,374	9,466,305
Plus reinsurance recoverable	627,082	473,866	602,750	473,866
Gross reserves at December 31	$9,720,813	$9,673,240	$10,069,055

Reserve_For_Losses_LAE_And_Fut4

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve (Summary Of Incurred Losses With Respect To A&E Reserves On Both Gross And Net Of Reinsurance Basis) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Abstract]
Gross basis: Beginning of period reserves	$402,461	$442,821	$499,911
Gross basis: Incurred losses	142,233	5,599	132
Gross basis: Paid losses	-68,489	-45,959	-57,222
Gross basis: End of period reserves	476,205	402,461	442,821
Net basis: Beginning of period reserves	386,677	425,691	480,160
Net basis: Incurred losses	137,769	5,400	124
Net basis: Paid losses	-66,235	-44,414	-54,593
Net basis: End of period reserves	$458,211	$386,677	$425,691

Reserve_For_Losses_LAE_And_Fut5

Reserve For Losses, LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve (Summary Of Activity In The Reserve For Future Policy Benefits) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reserve For Losses LAE And Future Policy Benefit Reserve [Abstract]
Balance at beginning of year	$59,512	$66,107	$67,187
Liabilities assumed	250	103	126
Adjustments to reserves	4,724	-3,066	2,365
Benefits paid in the current year	-4,667	-3,632	-3,571
Balance at end of year	$59,820	$59,512	$66,107

Fair_Value_Narrative_Details

Fair Value (Narrative) (Details)	12 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2005	Dec. 31, 2001	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
	USD ($)	USD ($)	security	security	Standard & Poor's 500 Index [Member]	FTSE 100 Index [Member]	FTSE 100 Index [Member]	Fair Value [Member]	Fair Value [Member]
					USD ($)	USD ($)	GBP (£)	Standard & Poor's 500 Index [Member]	FTSE 100 Index [Member]
					security	security		USD ($)	USD ($)
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair value of public equity portfolio	$196,980,000	$174,628,000
Notional Amount of Price Risk Derivatives					22,530,000	6,706,000		38,063,000	8,959,000
Number of equity index put option contracts			7	7	6	1	1
Estimates The Probability Of Equity Index Put Option Contract Strike Price On The Exercise Date					19.00%	44.00%	44.00%
Equity Index Put Option Contract, Maximum Amount Payable					0	0
Theoretical Maximum Payout Discount Factor					3.00%	3.00%	3.00%
Present Value Of Theoretical Maximum Payouts					420,013	43,334,000
Settlement Amount If Contracts Had Expired					0	0
Transfers between level 1 and 2	0
Transfers from level 3	51,101,000	46,384,000
Equity Index					$2,058.90		£ 6,566.1

Fair_Value_Fair_Value_Measurem

Fair Value (Fair Value Measurement Levels For All Assets And Liabilities) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	$13,101,067	$12,636,907
Fixed maturities, fair value	1,509	19,388
Equity securities, market value	140,210	144,081
Equity securities, fair value	1,447,820	1,462,079
Equity index put option contracts	47,022	35,423
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Equity securities, market value	124,295	127,030
Equity securities, fair value	1,337,396	1,342,278
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	13,085,304	12,630,780
Fixed maturities, fair value	1,509	19,388
Equity securities, market value	15,915	17,051
Equity securities, fair value	110,424	119,801
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	15,763	6,127
Equity index put option contracts	47,022	35,423
U.S. Treasury Securities And Obligations Of U.S. Government Agencies And Corporations [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	231,038	161,025
U.S. Treasury Securities And Obligations Of U.S. Government Agencies And Corporations [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	231,038	161,025
Obligations Of U.S. States And Political Subdivisions [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	824,472	1,002,528
Obligations Of U.S. States And Political Subdivisions [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	824,472	1,002,528
Corporate Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	4,706,985	4,079,416
Corporate Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	4,706,985	4,079,416
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	341,222	173,043
Asset-Backed Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	341,222	167,744
Asset-Backed Securities [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value		5,299
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	241,685	270,441
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	233,088	270,441
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	8,597
Agency Residential [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	2,183,164	2,279,053
Agency Residential [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	2,183,164	2,279,053
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	2,731	4,819
Non-Agency Residential [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	2,731	4,472
Non-Agency Residential [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value		347
Foreign Government Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	1,532,455	1,780,769
Foreign Government Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	1,532,455	1,780,769
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	3,037,315	2,885,813
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member] | Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	3,030,149	2,885,332
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member] | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	$7,166	$481

Fair_Value_Activity_Under_Leve

Fair Value (Activity Under Level 3, Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs By Asset Type) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$6,127	$52,030
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings	1,661	-431
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	-5,869	-1,521
Purchases, issuances and settlements	64,945	2,433
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	-51,101	-46,384
Ending balance	15,763	6,127
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date
Corporate Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	42
Purchases, issuances and settlements	1,274
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	-1,316
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date
Asset-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance	5,299	4,849
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings	1,259	258
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	-126	-717
Purchases, issuances and settlements	21,303	-624
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	-27,735	1,533
Ending balance		5,299
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	-426
Purchases, issuances and settlements	9,023
Ending balance	8,597
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance	481	11,913
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings	73	-738
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	-5,221	-587
Purchases, issuances and settlements	4,038	2,858
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	7,795	-12,965
Ending balance	7,166	481
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date
Foreign Government Securities [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings		-112
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)		-179
Purchases, issuances and settlements		516
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3		-225
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance	347	426
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings	329	161
Total gains or (losses) (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)	-138	-38
Purchases, issuances and settlements	-538	-317
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3		115
Ending balance		347
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date
Agency Residential [Member]
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]
Beginning balance		34,842
Purchases, issuances and settlements	29,845
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3	-29,845	-34,842
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets still held at the reporting date

Fair_Value_Fair_Value_Measurem1

Fair Value (Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs For Equity Index Put Option Contracts) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Fair Value [Abstract]
Balance, beginning of period	$35,423	$79,467
Total (gains) or losses (realized/unrealized) Included in earnings	11,599	-44,044
Total (gains) or losses (realized/unrealized) Included in other comprehensive income (loss)
Purchases, issuances and settlements
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3
Balance, end of period	47,022	35,423
The amount of total gains or losses for the period included in earnings (or changes in net assets) attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to liabilities still held at the reporting date

Redeemable_Noncontrolling_Inte2

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest - MT. Logan RE (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jan. 01, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Subsequent Event [Member]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Unaffiliated third party investments during period, net	$271,848
Logan Re [Member]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Voting common share percentage		100.00%
Investment, redeemable preferred shares, segregated accounts		50,000
Unaffiliated third party investments during period, net		$279,200	$87,500

Redeemable_Noncontrolling_Inte3

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest - MT. Logan RE (Activity For Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended						12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, beginning of period				$93,378			$93,378
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests	-17,140	-26,337	-7,741	-8,089	-2,110	-3,768	59,307	5,878
Dividends paid on third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest							-10,334
Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, end of period	421,552				93,378		421,552	93,378
Logan Re [Member]
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, beginning of period				93,378			93,378
Unaffiliated third party investments during period, net							279,200	87,500
Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests							59,307	5,878
Dividends paid on third party investment in redeemable noncontrolling interest							-10,334
Redeemable noncontrolling interests - Mt. Logan Re, end of period	$421,552				$93,378		$421,552	$93,378

Credit_Facilities_Narrative_De

Credit Facilities (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 27, 2007	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, number of facilities		2
Line of credit facility, commitment		$1,100,000
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, term of credit facility	5 years	4 years
Line of credit facility, commitment	850,000	800,000	800,000
Line of credit facility, required minimum debt-to-capital ratio		0.35
Line of credit facility, required minimum net worth		4,249,963
Percentage amount of consolidated net income required to be reserved to maintain compliance with facility covenants		25.00%
Percentage amount of increase in consolidated net worth from new issuance required to be reserved to maintain compliance with facility covenants		25.00%
Increase in reserves due to new issuance during the period required to maintain compliance with facility covenants		5,115,795
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1 [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis		an adjusted London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus a margin
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1(a) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis		prime commercial lending rate established by Wells Fargo Bank
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1(b) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, spread on variable rate basis		0.50%
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis		Federal Funds Rate plus 0.5% per annum
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1(c) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, spread on variable rate basis		1.00%
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis		one month LIBOR Rate plus 1.0% per annum
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility Tranche One [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, commitment		200,000	200,000
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility Tranche Two [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, commitment		600,000
Citibank Holdings Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date		15-Aug-14
Line of credit facility, initiation date		15-Aug-11
Line of credit facility, term of credit facility		3 years
Line of credit facility, commitment			150,000
Citibank Bilateral Agreement [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, initiation date		31-Dec-14
Line of credit facility, commitment		$300,000	$300,000
Per annum commitment fee on undrawn credit		0.15%
Citibank Bilateral Agreement [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1(a) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis		% per annum of the principal amount of issued standard letters of credit (expiry of 15 months or less)
Percentage of interest on the principal amount of letters of credit issued		0.35%
Maximum term allowed to execute issued letters of credit		15 months
Citibank Bilateral Agreement [Member] | Interest Rate Base Rate Option 1(b) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt Instrument Description Of Variable Rate Basis		% per annum of the principal amount of issued extended tenor letters of credit (expiry maximum of up to 60 months).
Percentage of interest on the principal amount of issued extended tenor letters of credit		0.45%
Maximum term allowed to execute issued letters of credit		60 months

Credit_Facilities_Summary_Of_C

Credit Facilities (Summary Of Costs Incurred Connection With Credit Facilities) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Credit Facilities [Abstract]
Credit facility fees incurred	$659	$964	$3,519

Credit_Facilities_Summary_Of_O

Credit Facilities (Summary Of Outstanding Letters Of Credit And/Or Borrowings Of Group Credit Facility) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Jul. 27, 2007
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment	$1,100,000
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility Tranche One [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment	200,000	200,000
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility Tranche Two Issuance One [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment	600,000	600,000
In Use	444,012	502,059
Date of Expiry	31-Dec-15	31-Dec-14
Wells Fargo Bank Group Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment	800,000	800,000	850,000
In Use	$444,012	$502,059

Credit_Facilities_Summary_Of_O1

Credit Facilities (Summary Of Outstanding Letters Of Credit And Borrowings Of Bermuda Re Letter Of Credit Facility) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment	$1,100,000
Citibank Bilateral Letter Of Credit Agreement One [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment	300,000	300,000
In Use	112	119
Date of Expiry	30-Aug-15	30-Aug-14
Citibank Bilateral Letter Of Credit Agreement Two [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
In Use	3,672	3,672
Date of Expiry	24-Nov-15	24-Nov-14
Citibank Bilateral Letter Of Credit Agreement Three [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
In Use	70,922	79,336
Date of Expiry	31-Dec-15	31-Dec-14
Citibank Bilateral Letter Of Credit Agreement Four [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
In Use	2,014	1,045
Date of Expiry	31-Dec-16	31-Dec-15
Citibank Bilateral Letter Of Credit Agreement Five [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
In Use	149,353	22,800
Date of Expiry	30-Dec-18	31-Dec-17
Citibank Bilateral Letter Of Credit Agreement Six [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
In Use		129,147
Date of Expiry		30-Mar-18
Citibank Bilateral Agreement [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment	300,000	300,000
In Use	$226,073	$236,119

Credit_Facilities_Summary_Of_O2

Credit Facilities (Summary Of Outstanding Letters Of Credit And/Or Borrowings Of Citibank Holdings Credit Facility) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment	$1,100,000
Citibank Holdings Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment		150,000
Revolving Credit Borrowings [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment
In Use
Citibank Holdings Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Commitment		150,000
In Use		851
Date of Loan	15-Aug-11
Date of Expiry	15-Aug-14
Holdings Letters Of Credit [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
In Use		$851
Date of Expiry		31-Dec-14

Senior_Notes_Narrative_Details

Senior Notes (Narrative) (Details) (Senior Notes [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Date Issued	5-Jun-14
Principal amounts	$400,000,000
Debt maturity term	30 years
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	4.87%	0.00%
Date due	1-Jun-44	1-Jun-44
5.4% Senior notes due 10/15/2014 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Date Issued	12-Oct-04
Principal amounts	$250,000,000
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	5.40%	5.40%
Date due	15-Oct-14	15-Oct-14

Senior_Notes_Schedule_Of_Outst

Senior Notes (Schedule Of Outstanding Senior Notes) (Details) (Senior Notes [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	4.87%	0.00%
Date issued	5-Jun-14
Date due	1-Jun-44	1-Jun-44
Principal amounts	$400,000,000
Consolidated balance sheet amount	400,000,000
Market value	404,892,000
5.4% Senior notes due 10/15/2014 [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	5.40%	5.40%
Date issued	12-Oct-04
Date due	15-Oct-14	15-Oct-14
Principal amounts	250,000,000
Consolidated balance sheet amount		249,958,000
Market value		259,130,000

Senior_Notes_Schedule_Of_Inter

Senior Notes (Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Senior Notes) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Senior Notes [Abstract]
Interest expense incurred	$21,818	$13,551	$13,548

Long_Term_Subordinated_Notes_N

Long Term Subordinated Notes (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 19, 2009	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Redemption date		1-May-47
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate		6.60%	6.60%
Maturity Date		1-May-67	1-May-67
Percentage of principal amount required for redemption		100.00%
Outstanding debt reduction	$161,441
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable spread on treasury rate		0.25%
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Applicable spread on treasury rate		0.50%
Fixed Rate Interest Period [Member] | Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate		6.60%
Interest basis, 3 month LIBOR plus number of basis points, reset quarterly		2.39%
Right to defer interest on one or more occasions for up to number of consecutive years		10 years
Fixed Rate Interest Period [Member] | Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest payment date		3-May-07
Fixed Rate Interest Period [Member] | Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest payment date		14-May-17
Floating Rate Interest Period [Member] | Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Right to defer interest on one or more occasions for up to number of consecutive years		10 years
5.4% Senior notes due 10/15/2014 [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate		5.40%	5.40%
Maturity Date		15-Oct-14	15-Oct-14
4.868% Senior notes due 6/1/2044 [Member] | Senior Notes [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate		4.87%	0.00%
Maturity Date		1-Jun-44	1-Jun-44

Long_Term_Subordinated_Notes_S

Long Term Subordinated Notes (Schedule Of Outstanding Fixed To Floating Rate Long Term Subordinated Notes) (Details) (Long Term Subordinated Notes [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	6.60%	6.60%
Date Issued	26-Apr-07
Original Principal Amount	$400,000,000
Maturity Date	1-May-67	1-May-67
Consolidated balance sheet amount	238,364,000	238,361,000
Market value	$246,312,000	$233,292,000
Scheduled [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity Date	15-May-37
Final [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Maturity Date	1-May-67

Long_Term_Subordinated_Notes_S1

Long Term Subordinated Notes (Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Long Term Subordinated Notes) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Long Term Subordinated Notes [Abstract]
Interest expense incurred	$15,749	$15,748	$15,748

Junior_Subordinated_Debt_Secur2

Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable (Narrative) (Details) (Junior Subordinated Debt Securities [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	6.20%
Original Principal Amount	$329,897,000
Early redemption of junior subordinated debt, pre-tax expense	$7,282,000

Junior_Subordinated_Debt_Secur3

Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable (Schedule Of Interest Expense Incurred In Connection With Junior Subordinated Debt Securities) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Junior Subordinated Debt Securities Payable [Abstract]
Interest expense incurred	$8,181	$20,454

Reinsurance_And_Trust_Agreemen1

Reinsurance And Trust Agreements (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			0 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Nov. 18, 2014	Apr. 24, 2014
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Amount on deposit in trust accounts	$322,285
Reinsurance coverage amount	492,084	213,813	229,466
Kilimanjaro Re Limited [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Number of collateralized reinsurance agreements	2
Kilimanjaro Re Limited [Member] | Catastrophe Reinsurance [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Reinsurance coverage amount				500,000
Kilimanjaro Re Limited [Member] | Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement 1 [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Reinsurance coverage amount					250,000
Catastrophe reinsurance bonds funded amount					450,000
Kilimanjaro Re Limited [Member] | Catastrophe Reinsurance Agreement 2 [Member]
Effects of Reinsurance [Line Items]
Reinsurance coverage amount					200,000
Catastrophe reinsurance bonds funded amount				$500,000

Operating_Lease_Agreements_Nar

Operating Lease Agreements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Operating Lease Agreements [Abstract]
Rental expense	$15,519	$14,407	$14,169

Operating_Lease_Agreements_Fut

Operating Lease Agreements (Future Minimum Rental Commitments) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Operating Lease Agreements [Abstract]
2015	$13,370
2016	13,975
2017	12,776
2018	12,573
2019	12,392
Thereafter	20,676
Net commitments	$85,762

Income_Taxes_Narrative_Details

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Accrual withholding taxes percent	5.00%
Accrual Withholding Taxes	$0
Understatement in deferred tax asset account		17,520
Additional income tax benefit resulting from correction, amount		17,520
Income Tax Examination, Penalties and Interest Expense		-2,154
Tax benefits related to share-based compensation	6,603		4,562
Foreign tax credits	64,902		74,255
Alternative minimum tax credits	44,954		93,336
Net operating loss carryforward	3,296		3,805
2007 And 2008 IRS Audit [Member]
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Additional income tax benefit resulting from correction, amount		12,747
IRS audit, interest paid		1,702
IRS audit, additional income tax expense		354
IRS audit, decrease in reserve for uncertain tax positions		-31,912
IRS audit, decrease in reserve for uncertain tax positions, interest related		2,154
IRS audit, income tax benefit		($34,067)

Income_Taxes_Components_Of_The

Income Taxes (Components Of The Provision) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Taxes [Abstract]
U.S.	$143,297	$116,829	$46,723
Non-U.S.	22,575	18,219	14,131
Total current tax expense (benefit)	165,872	135,048	60,854
Total deferred U.S. tax expense (benefit)	21,780	154,658	49,718
Total income tax expense (benefit)	$187,652	$289,706	$110,572

Income_Taxes_Reconciliation_Of

Income Taxes (Reconciliation Of The Difference Between The Provision For Income Taxes And The Expected Tax Provision At The Weighted Average Tax Rate) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Underwriting gain (loss)									$886,615	$738,608	$259,003
Net investment income	134,046	142,143	131,224	123,157	126,127	127,872	148,729	145,781	530,570	548,509	600,202
Net realized capital gains (losses)	13,352	-9,448	59,016	21,126	94,629	44,958	33,905	126,735	84,046	300,227	164,400
Net derivative gain (loss)									-11,599	44,044	-9,738
Corporate expenses									-23,421	-24,817	-23,976
Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense									-38,533	-46,118	-53,683
Other income (expense)									18,437	-5,487	3,318
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									1,446,115	1,554,966	939,526
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from: Other											-17,520
Total income tax expense (benefit)									187,652	289,706	110,572
U.S. [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Underwriting gain (loss)									228,194	246,699	42,775
Net investment income									260,501	274,920	287,382
Net realized capital gains (losses)									78,006	295,814	143,326
Corporate expenses									-7,252	-8,262	-8,764
Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense									-37,970	-45,452	-50,746
Other income (expense)									-1,561	-7,086	18,360
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									519,918	756,633	432,332
Expected tax provision at the applicable statutory rate(s)									181,972	264,822	151,316
Increase (decrease) in tax resulting from: Tax exempt income									-12,231	-15,038	-20,623
Increase (decrease) in tax resulting from: Dividend received deduction									-5,910	-7,809	-8,351
Increase (decrease) in tax resulting from: Proration									1,835	2,274	3,138
Increase (decrease) in tax resulting from: Tax audit settlement											-2,508
Increase (decrease) in tax resulting from: Uncertain tax position release											-31,912
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from: Other									-588	27,238	5,381
Total income tax expense (benefit)									165,077	271,487	96,441
Non-U.S. [Member]
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Underwriting gain (loss)									658,421	491,909	216,228
Net investment income									270,069	273,589	312,820
Net realized capital gains (losses)									6,040	4,413	21,073
Net derivative gain (loss)									-11,599	44,044	-9,738
Corporate expenses									-16,169	-16,555	-15,211
Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense									-563	-665	-2,936
Other income (expense)									19,998	1,598	-15,042
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									926,197	798,333	507,194
Expected tax provision at the applicable statutory rate(s)									21,279	16,279	11,012
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from: Other									1,296	1,940	3,119
Total income tax expense (benefit)									$22,575	$18,219	$14,131

Income_Taxes_Net_Deferred_Inco

Income Taxes (Net Deferred Income Tax Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Loss reserve	$153,978	$146,781
Foreign tax credits	64,902	74,255
Alternative minimum tax credits	44,954	93,336
Unearned premium reserve	44,582	45,368
Net unrecognized losses on benefit plans	40,377	20,944
Investment impairments	13,841	2,485
Benefit plan liability	9,873	7,968
Uncollectible reinsurance reserve	5,237	5,534
Net operating loss carryforward	3,296	3,805
Deferred expenses	3,076	2,695
Other assets	21,048	12,306
Total deferred tax assets	405,164	415,477
Net fair value income	128,856	121,784
Deferred acquisition costs	38,636	39,344
Net unrealized investment gains	28,108	40,396
Net unrealized foreign currency gains		28,098
Gain on tender of debt	21,916	27,395
Other liabilities	15,379	8,374
Total deferred tax liabilities	232,895	265,391
Net deferred tax assets	172,269	150,086
Valuation allowance	-3,296	-3,805
Total net deferred tax assets	$168,973	$146,281

Income_Taxes_Reconciliation_Of1

Income Taxes (Reconciliation Of The Beginning And Ending Amount Of Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Balance at January 1			$31,912
Additions for tax positions of prior years
Reductions for tax positions of prior years			-31,912
Lapses of applicable statutes of limitations
Balance at December 31

Reinsurance_Details

Reinsurance (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reinsurance Disclosures [Abstract]
Written premiums: Direct									$1,227,645	$1,268,698	$1,074,206
Written premiums: Assumed									4,521,342	3,949,936	3,236,331
Written premiums: Ceded									-492,084	-213,813	-229,466
Net written premiums	1,294,247	1,517,580	1,217,487	1,227,589	1,253,355	1,389,147	1,212,626	1,149,693	5,256,903	5,004,821	4,081,071
Premiums earned: Direct									1,183,498	1,207,833	1,054,707
Premiums earned: Assumed									4,405,253	3,748,824	3,353,667
Premium earned: Ceded									-419,616	-203,114	-243,746
Net premiums earned	1,362,330	1,389,998	1,272,317	1,144,490	1,287,496	1,225,755	1,151,533	1,088,759	5,169,135	4,753,543	4,164,628
Incurred losses and LAE: Direct									1,100,037	1,173,177	926,364
Incurred losses and LAE: Assumed									2,160,663	1,833,055	2,017,526
Incurred losses and LAE: Ceded									-354,166	-205,981	-198,625
Net incurred losses and LAE									$2,906,534	$2,800,251	$2,745,265

Comprehensive_Income_Loss_Comp

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Components Of Comprehensive Income (Loss) In The Consolidated Statements Of Operations) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary, Before Tax	($4,278)	($457,192)	$178,405
URA (D) on securities - OTTI, Before Tax	-10,078	-1,579	2,181
Reclassification on net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss), Before Tax	34,668	-8,388	-19,606
Foreign currency translation adjustments, Before Tax	-111,145	-10,462	26,484
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss), Before Tax	-60,169	27,442	-18,109
Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss), Before Tax	4,647	8,889	7,377
Total other comprehensive income (loss), Before Tax	-146,355	-441,290	176,732
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary, Tax Effect	11,653	62,834	-6,644
URA (D) on securities - OTTI, Tax Effect	3,407	140	83
Reclassification of net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss), Tax Effect	-13,276	1,411	-70
Foreign currency translation adjustments, Tax Effect	15,728	10,300	-3,786
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss), Tax Effect	21,059	-9,605	6,338
Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss), Tax Effect	-1,627	-3,111	-2,582
Total other comprehensive income (loss), Tax Effect	36,944	61,969	-6,661
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities - temporary, Net of Tax	7,375	-394,358	171,761
URA (D) on securities - OTTI, Net of Tax	-6,671	-1,439	2,264
Reclassification on net realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss), Net of Tax	21,392	-6,977	-19,676
Foreign currency translation adjustments, Net of Tax	-95,417	-162	22,698
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss), Net of Tax	-39,110	17,837	-11,771
Reclassification of benefit plan liability amortization included in net income (loss), Net of Tax	3,020	5,778	4,795
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	($109,411)	($379,321)	$170,071

Comprehensive_Income_Loss_Recl

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Reclassified From Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other net realized capital gains (losses)									$123,548	$301,279	$174,422
Other underwriting expenses									240,400	237,126	207,659
Income tax expense (benefit)									187,652	289,706	110,572
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO EVEREST RE GROUP	340,123	274,916	290,184	293,933	364,638	234,759	275,642	384,343	1,199,156	1,259,382	828,954
URA(D) On Securities [Member] | Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other net realized capital gains (losses)									34,668	-8,388
Income tax expense (benefit)									-13,276	1,411
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO EVEREST RE GROUP									21,392	-6,977
Benefit Plan Liabilities [Member] | Reclassification Out Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other underwriting expenses									4,647	8,889
Income tax expense (benefit)									-1,627	-3,111
NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO EVEREST RE GROUP									$3,020	$5,778

Comprehensive_Income_Loss_Comp1

Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Components Of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Of Tax, In The Consolidated Balance Sheets) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
Beginning balance of URA (D) on securities	$201,154	$603,928
Current period change in URA(D) of investments - temporary	28,767	-401,335
Current period change in URA (D) of investments - non-credit OTTI	-6,671	-1,439
Ending balance of URA (D) on securities	223,250	201,154	603,928
Beginning balance of foreign currency translation adjustments	-4,530	-4,368
Current period change in foreign currency translation adjustments	-95,417	-162
Ending balance of foreign currency translation adjustments	-99,947	-4,530	-4,368
Beginning balance of benefit plan net gain (loss)	-38,896	-62,511
Current period change in benefit plan net gain (loss)	-36,090	23,615	-6,976
Ending balance of benefit plan net gain (loss)	-74,986	-38,896	-62,511
Ending balance of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	$48,317	$157,728

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Narrati

Employee Benefit Plans (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated transition obligation amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net public benefit cost over the next year	$0
Estimated actuarial loss amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year	9,005
Estimated prior service cost amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year	21
Weighted average discount rate used to determine net periodic benefit cost	5.00%	4.00%	4.60%
Rate of compensation increase to determine the net periodic benefit cost	4.00%	4.00%	4.00%
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets	7.50%	7.50%	7.75%
Weighted average discount rates used to determine actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligation	4.00%	5.00%	4.00%
Defined contribution plans, employer contribution plans, employer contribution percentage, maximum	3.00%
Defined contribution plans, employer contribution percentage, for new hires, minimum	3.00%
Defined contribution plans, employer contribution percentage, for new hires, maximum	8.00%
Vested contribution after three years, percentage	100.00%
Defined contribution plans vesting period, years	3 years
Defined contribution plan employer contribution percentage for branch offices, minimum	3.20%
Defined contribution plan employer contribution percentage for branch offices, maximum	14.60%
Equity Securities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Plan assets consist of shares in investment trusts, percentage	76.00%
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Plan assets consist of shares in investment trusts, percentage	15.00%
Cash [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Plan assets consist of shares in investment trusts, percentage	9.00%
Equities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target asset allocation percentage	70.00%
Bonds [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Target asset allocation percentage	30.00%
Pre-Medicare Claims [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Healthcare inflation rate	7.20%
Healthcare inflation rate decreased	4.50%
Post-Medicare Claims [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Healthcare inflation rate	6.30%
Healthcare inflation rate decreased	4.50%
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated transition obligation amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net public benefit cost over the next year	0
Estimated actuarial loss amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year	843
Estimated prior service cost amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year	$0
Weighted average discount rate used to determine net periodic benefit cost	5.00%	4.00%	4.60%
Weighted average discount rates used to determine actuarial present value of the projected benefit obligation	4.00%	5.00%	4.00%

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary

Employee Benefit Plans (Summary Of Contributions To Defined Benefit Pension Plans) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Company contributions	$16,484	$22,536	$267

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary1

Employee Benefit Plans (Summary Of Pension Expense) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Pension expense	$18,543	$19,348	$16,542

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary2

Employee Benefit Plans (Summary Of Status Of Plan) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$22,053	$19,921	$14,616
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	10,015	11,182	9,370
Interest cost	10,474	8,511	7,971
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	27,594	27,938
Service cost	1,619	1,899	1,677
Interest cost	1,320	1,164	1,033
Actuarial (gain)/loss	6,475	-3,040
Benefits paid	-502	-366
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	36,506	27,594	27,938
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
Actual contributions during the year	502	366
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
Funded status at end of year	-36,506	-27,594
U.S. Employees [Member] | Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Benefit obligation at beginning of year	214,059	212,159
Service cost	10,015	11,182
Interest cost	10,474	8,511
Actuarial (gain)/loss	55,107	-12,742
Benefits paid	-19,588	-5,052
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	270,065	214,059
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	152,446	114,807
Actual return on plan assets	7,747	20,155
Actual contributions during the year	16,484	22,536
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	157,090	152,446
Funded status at end of year	($112,976)	($61,613)

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Amounts

Employee Benefit Plans (Amounts Recognized In The Consolidated Balance Sheets) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other assets (due beyond one year)
Other liabilities (due within one year)	-5,469	-17,000
Other liabilities (due beyond one year)	-107,507	-44,613
Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets	-112,976	-61,613
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other liabilities (due within one year)	-639	-463
Other liabilities (due beyond one year)	-35,867	-27,130
Net amount recognized in the consolidated balance sheets	($36,506)	($27,594)

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Amounts1

Employee Benefit Plans (Amounts Not Yet Reflected In Net Periodic Benefit Cost And Included In Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Prior service cost	($21)	($70)
Accumulated income (loss)	-102,671	-53,318
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	-102,692	-53,387	-85,939
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated income (loss)	-12,670	-6,452
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	($12,670)	($6,452)	($10,231)	($6,452)

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Other_C

Employee Benefit Plans (Other Changes In Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2011
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year	($53,387)	($85,939)
Net gain (loss) arising during period	-58,647	24,402
Prior service cost	49	49
Actuarial loss (gain)	9,294	8,101
Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year	-102,692	-53,387
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, prior year	-6,452	-10,231	-6,452
Net gain (loss) arising during period	6,475	-3,040
Actuarial loss (gain)	257	739
Other comprehensive income (loss) at December 31, current year	($12,670)	($6,452)	($6,452)

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Net_Per

Employee Benefit Plans (Net Periodic Benefit Cost For U.S. Employees) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Estimated prior service cost amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year	$21
Net periodic benefit cost	18,543	19,348	16,542
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	10,015	11,182	9,370
Interest cost	10,474	8,511	7,971
Expected return on plan assets	-11,288	-8,495	-7,743
Amortization of actuarial loss from earlier periods	4,341	8,101	6,896
Estimated prior service cost amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year	49	49	49
Settlement / Net Loss Recognition	4,953
Net periodic benefit cost	18,543	19,348	16,542
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to change from prior year	49,305	-32,552
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss)	67,847	-13,204
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	1,619	1,899	1,677
Interest cost	1,320	1,164	1,033
Estimated prior service cost amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost over the next year	0
Settlement / Net Loss Recognition	257	739	432
Net periodic benefit cost	3,196	3,801	3,142
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to change from prior year	6,218	-3,779
Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss)	$9,414	$22

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Summary3

Employee Benefit Plans (Summary Of Accumulated Benefit Obligation) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	$219,371	$177,577
Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	200,205	147,803
Non-Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	$19,167	$29,774

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Project

Employee Benefit Plans (Projected Benefit Obligations In Excess Of Plan Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Projected benefit obligation	$243,525	$179,512
Fair value of plan assets	157,090	152,446
Non-Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Projected benefit obligation	26,540	34,547
Fair value of plan assets

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Accumul

Employee Benefit Plans (Accumulated Benefit Obligations In Excess Of Plan Assets) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	$200,205
Fair value of plan assets	157,090
Non-Qualified Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Accumulated benefit obligation	19,167	29,774
Fair value of plan assets

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Expecte

Employee Benefit Plans (Expected Benefit Payments) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2015	$9,683
2016	6,297
2017	7,619
2018	9,120
2019	11,350
Next 5 years	63,370
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
2015	639
2016	738
2017	794
2018	926
2019	1,054
Next 5 years	$7,802

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Fair_Va

Employee Benefit Plans (Fair Value Measurement Levels For Qualified Plan Assets) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash	$437,474	$611,382
Short-term investments, which approximates fair value	14,328	10,590
Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value	10,629	10,765
Private equity limited partnerships	11,423	9,156
Total	157,090	152,446
Percent of fixed income funds in US securities	50.00%	50.00%
Percent of fixed income funds in international securities	50.00%	50.00%
Percent of equities mutual funds in US equities	90.00%	90.00%
Percent of equities mutual funds in international equities	10.00%	10.00%
Cash Managed By Employee Benefit Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash
Fixed Income [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value	23,948	24,630
Equities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value	96,762	97,305
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Short-term investments, which approximates fair value	14,328	10,590
Total	135,037	132,525
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Cash Managed By Employee Benefit Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Fixed Income [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value	23,948	24,630
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Equities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value	96,762	97,305
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Short-term investments, which approximates fair value
Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value
Private equity limited partnerships
Total
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Cash Managed By Employee Benefit Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Fixed Income [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Equities [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Mutual funds, fair value
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Multi-strategy equity fund, fair value	10,629	10,765
Private equity limited partnerships	11,423	9,156
Total	22,053	19,921
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Cash Managed By Employee Benefit Plan [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash
Parent Company [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Cash	$1,398	$3,643

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Fair_Va1

Employee Benefit Plans (Fair Value Measurements Using Significant Unobservable Inputs For Fixed Maturity Investments) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$19,921	$14,616
Realized gains (losses) relating to assets sold during the period	75	7
Unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date	331	2,589
Purchases and capital contributions	3,390	2,951
Sales and capital distributions	-1,664	-242
Transfers in and/or (out) of Level 3
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	22,053	19,921
The amount of total gains (losses) for the period included in changes in net assets attributable to the change in unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets still held at the reporting date	$256	$2,582

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Incurre

Employee Benefit Plans (Incurred Expenses Related To Defined Contribution Plans For U.S. Employees) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Employee Benefits and Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Incurred expenses	$4,676	$3,903	$3,209

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Incurre1

Employee Benefit Plans (Incurred Expenses Related To Defined Contribution Plans For Non-U.S. Employees) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Employee Benefits and Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Incurred expenses	$1,387	$1,195	$1,064

Employee_Benefit_Plans_Changes

Employee Benefit Plans (Changes In The Assumed Healthcare Cost Trend) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014
Employee Benefits and Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Effect on total service and interest cost components, Percent Point Increase	$674
Effect on total service and interest cost components, Percentage Point Decrease	-518
Effect on accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation, Percentage Point Increase	8,442
Effect on accumulated post-retirement benefit obligation, Percentage Point Decrease	($6,426)

Employee_Benefit_Plans_PostRet

Employee Benefit Plans (Post-Retirement Benefit Expenses) (Details) (Other Benefits [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Post-retirement benefit expenses	$3,196	$3,801	$3,141

Dividend_Restrictions_And_Stat2

Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information [Line Items]
Minimum solvency margin	$250
Prior approval of the Bermuda Monetary Authority is required for dividend payments, if percentage exceeds in prior-year end total statutory capital	25.00%
Dividend payment restrictions, period in months		12 months
Dividend payment restrictions, percentage of statutory surplus required	10.00%
Available for payment of dividends in 2015 without need for prior regulatory approval	357,297
Target capital level, percent of the enhanced capital requirement		120.00%
Minimum percent of total adjusted capital	200.00%
Everest Re [Member]
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information [Line Items]
Statutory capital and surplus	2,892,999	2,814,337
Statutory net income(loss)	-357,298	540,020	359,816
Bermuda Re [Member]
Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information [Line Items]
Statutory capital and surplus	2,748,030	2,712,184
Statutory net income(loss)	$698,834	$634,147	$475,909

Dividend_Restrictions_And_Stat3

Dividend Restrictions And Statutory Financial Information (Regulatory Targeted Capital And Actual Statutory Capital) (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Bermuda Re [Member]
Compliance with Regulatory Capital Requirements under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Regulatory targeted capital		$2,154,553
Actual capital	2,748,030	2,712,184
Everest Re [Member]
Compliance with Regulatory Capital Requirements under Banking Regulations [Line Items]
Regulatory targeted capital	1,209,601	1,094,605
Actual capital	$2,892,999	$2,814,337

Contingencies_Details

Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
The Prudential Insurance Company [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Estimated cost to replace annuities	$142,653	$144,734
Unaffiliated Life Insurance Company [Member]
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Estimated cost to replace annuities	$31,964	$30,664

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_1

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			24 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2014	14-May-14	Feb. 26, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common shares, authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000		200,000,000
Vesting period on options and restricted shares, years	3 years
Share-based compensation awards, grant exercise price			$88.35
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted			$19.21
Options, granted				0
Share-based compensation expense	$21,196	$31,844	$31,984
Expiration period, in years	10 years
Income tax benefit recorded	5,819	5,458	2,792
Additional paid-in capital due to tax benefit from dividends on restricted shares	401	237	162
Aggregate intrinsic value of options exercised	21,202	30,050	14,603	21,202
Cash received from the exercised share options	23,899
Tax benefit realized from the options exercised	6,925
Unrecognized compensation cost	41,818
Tax benefit from stock options vested	4,496
Fair value of shares vested	12,797	21,894	28,003
Unrecognized compensation cost expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period, years	3 years 3 months 18 days
Common shares, issued	476	586	518	476
Common stock acquired	55,756	94,014	148,962
Common stock, value	8,531	13,180	15,307	8,531
Aggregate value of issuances	75	75	48
Employee Plans, 1995 And 2002 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Options, granted	0
2010 Employee Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common shares, authorized	4,000,000			4,000,000
Remaining shares	2,751,801
Employee Plans [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of options and restricted shares granted	20.00%
Vesting period on options and restricted shares, years	5 years
2009 Director Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common shares, authorized	37,439			37,439
Remaining shares	35,215
2003 Director Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common shares, authorized	500,000			500,000
Remaining shares	391,487
Percentage of options and restricted shares granted	33.00%
Vesting period on options and restricted shares, years	3 years
1995 Director Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of options and restricted shares granted	50.00%
Vesting period on options and restricted shares, years	2 years
Key Employees [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted shares issued	1,696,595
Restricted shares cancelled	196,593			196,593
Non-Employee Directors [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted shares issued	100,786
Restricted shares cancelled	0			0
Employees And Non-Employee Directors [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Common stock acquired	26,734	74,175	79,086
Common stock, value	$4,207	$9,313	$8,322	$4,207
Restricted Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted	$170.44				$157.94	$147.03
Options, granted	176,159

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_2

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Assumptions Used In Calculating The Fair Value Of Options Granted) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-Based Compensation Plans [Abstract]
Weighted-average volatility			26.16%
Weighted-average dividend yield			2.00%
Weighted-average expected term, years			6 years 8 months 9 days
Weighted-average risk-free rate			1.33%

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_3

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Company's Shareholder Approved Plans) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-Based Compensation Plans [Abstract]
Outstanding at January 1, Shares	1,190,544	2,012,164	2,316,276
Granted, Shares			320,454
Exercised, Shares	286,120	768,190	581,496
Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired, Shares	16,240	53,430	43,070
Outstanding at December 31, Shares	888,184	1,190,544	2,012,164
Exercisable at December 31, Shares	562,684	579,417	995,070
Outstanding at January 1, Weighted-Average Exercise Price/Share	$85.44	$87.25	$84.39
Granted - Weighted- Average Exercise Price/Share			$88.35
Exercised, Weighted- Average Exercise Price/Share	$83.53	$90.26	$76.51
Forfeited/Cancelled/Expired, Weighted- Average Exercise Price/Share	$85.73	$84.23	$86.56
Outstanding at December 31, Weighted-Average Exercise Price/Share	$86.05	$85.44	$87.25
Exercisable at December 31, Weighted-Average Exercise Price/Share	$85.41	$86.33	$90.09
Outstanding at December 31, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term	5 years 2 months 12 days	5 years 9 months 18 days	6 years
Exercisable at December 31, Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term	4 years 6 months	4 years 6 months	4 years 4 months 24 days
Outstanding at December 31, Average Intrinsic Value	$76,485	$83,313	$44,053
Exercisable at December 31, Average Intrinsic Value	$48,812	$40,029	$18,956

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_4

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Share Options Outstanding And Exercisable) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding	888,184
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average-Remaining Contractual Life	5 years 2 months 12 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$86.05
Options Exercisable, Number Exercisable	562,684
Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$85.41
$ 66.0780 - $77.0910 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Lower range limit	$66.08
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Upper range limit	$77.09
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding	158,810
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average-Remaining Contractual Life	4 years 1 month 6 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$71.72
Options Exercisable, Number Exercisable	158,810
Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$71.72
$ 77.0911 - $88.1040 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Lower range limit	$77.09
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Upper range limit	$88.10
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding	354,240
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average-Remaining Contractual Life	5 years 8 months 12 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$85.74
Options Exercisable, Number Exercisable	190,540
Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$85.56
$ 88.1041 - $99.1170 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Lower range limit	$88.10
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Upper range limit	$99.12
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding	305,180
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average-Remaining Contractual Life	5 years 7 months 6 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$90.72
Options Exercisable, Number Exercisable	143,380
Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$93.39
$ 99.1171 - $110.1300 [Member]
Share-based Compensation, Shares Authorized under Stock Option Plans, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Lower range limit	$99.12
Ranges of Exercise Prices, Upper range limit	$110.13
Options Outstanding, Number Outstanding	69,954
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average-Remaining Contractual Life	3 years 2 months 12 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price	$99.77
Options Exercisable, Number Exercisable	69,954
Options Exercisable, Weighted-Average Exercise Price	$99.77

ShareBased_Compensation_Plans_5

Share-Based Compensation Plans (Summary Of Company's Non-Vested Shares And Changes) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Share-Based Compensation Plans [Abstract]
Outstanding at January 1, Shares	429,041	357,750	372,453
Granted - Shares	176,159	274,715	310,370
Vested, Shares	128,549	187,397	313,573
Forfeited, Shares	8,906	16,027	11,500
Outstanding at December 31, Shares	467,745	429,041	357,750
Outstanding at January 1, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$103.50	$87.86	$85.12
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$147.44	$132.95	$92.46
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$99.55	$116.83	$89.30
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$118.82	$103.29	$84.17
Outstanding at December 31, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	$120.84	$103.50	$87.86

Segment_Reporting_Schedule_Of_

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of Underwriting Results For Operating Segments) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Written premiums: Direct									$1,227,645	$1,268,698	$1,074,206
Net written premiums	1,294,247	1,517,580	1,217,487	1,227,589	1,253,355	1,389,147	1,212,626	1,149,693	5,256,903	5,004,821	4,081,071
Premiums earned	1,362,330	1,389,998	1,272,317	1,144,490	1,287,496	1,225,755	1,151,533	1,088,759	5,169,135	4,753,543	4,164,628
Incurred losses and LAE									2,906,534	2,800,251	2,745,265
Commission and brokerage									1,135,586	977,558	952,701
Other underwriting expenses									240,400	237,126	207,659
Underwriting gain (loss)									886,615	738,608	259,003
U.S. Reinsurance [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Written premiums: Direct									2,039,578	1,809,669	1,310,683
Net written premiums									1,983,800	1,807,067	1,306,463
Premiums earned									1,986,769	1,671,513	1,416,407
Incurred losses and LAE									954,525	814,668	1,050,394
Commission and brokerage									466,291	366,890	350,634
Other underwriting expenses									45,583	47,176	44,776
Underwriting gain (loss)									520,370	442,779	-29,397
International [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Written premiums: Direct									1,582,426	1,345,770	1,192,306
Net written premiums									1,336,633	1,327,430	1,188,745
Premiums earned									1,310,903	1,289,341	1,214,840
Incurred losses and LAE									748,174	675,362	586,325
Commission and brokerage									306,229	295,883	300,116
Other underwriting expenses									34,598	33,910	29,294
Underwriting gain (loss)									221,902	284,186	299,105
Bermuda [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Written premiums: Direct									770,249	774,268	734,405
Net written premiums									744,664	765,660	733,751
Premiums earned									715,736	737,986	680,948
Incurred losses and LAE									361,792	374,375	408,230
Commission and brokerage									198,848	179,138	184,357
Other underwriting expenses									34,923	34,654	30,607
Underwriting gain (loss)									120,173	149,819	57,754
U.S Insurance [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Written premiums: Direct									1,218,372	1,268,745	1,073,143
Net written premiums									1,067,333	1,086,217	852,112
Premiums earned									1,030,299	1,037,425	852,433
Incurred losses and LAE									811,445	931,466	700,316
Commission and brokerage									149,777	133,695	117,594
Other underwriting expenses									118,001	119,283	102,982
Underwriting gain (loss)									-48,924	-147,019	-68,459
Mt. Logan Re [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Written premiums: Direct									138,362	20,182
Net written premiums									124,473	18,447
Premiums earned									125,428	17,278
Incurred losses and LAE									30,598	4,380
Commission and brokerage									14,441	1,952
Other underwriting expenses									7,295	2,103
Underwriting gain (loss)									$73,094	$8,843

Segment_Reporting_Schedule_Of_1

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of Underwriting Results For Operating Segments To Income (Loss) Before Taxes) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Underwriting gain (loss)									$886,615	$738,608	$259,003
Net investment income	134,046	142,143	131,224	123,157	126,127	127,872	148,729	145,781	530,570	548,509	600,202
Net realized capital gains (losses)	13,352	-9,448	59,016	21,126	94,629	44,958	33,905	126,735	84,046	300,227	164,400
Net derivative gain (loss)									-11,599	44,044	-9,738
Corporate expenses									-23,421	-24,817	-23,976
Interest, fee and bond issue cost amortization expense									-38,533	-46,118	-53,683
Other income (expense)									18,437	-5,487	3,318
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									$1,446,115	$1,554,966	$939,526

Segment_Reporting_Schedule_Of_2

Segment Reporting (Schedule Of Gross Written Premiums Derived From Largest Non-U.S. Market) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross written premium	$1,227,645	$1,268,698	$1,074,206
Percentage threshold of company revenue not exceeded by any other country	22.70%	20.60%	21.10%
United Kingdom [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Gross written premium	$676,490	$555,332	$456,724

Unaudited_Quarterly_Financial_2

Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract]
Gross written premiums	$1,399,500	$1,666,701	$1,415,362	$1,267,424	$1,312,658	$1,464,984	$1,260,202	$1,180,790
Net written premiums	1,294,247	1,517,580	1,217,487	1,227,589	1,253,355	1,389,147	1,212,626	1,149,693	5,256,903	5,004,821	4,081,071
Premiums earned	1,362,330	1,389,998	1,272,317	1,144,490	1,287,496	1,225,755	1,151,533	1,088,759	5,169,135	4,753,543	4,164,628
Net investment income	134,046	142,143	131,224	123,157	126,127	127,872	148,729	145,781	530,570	548,509	600,202
Net realized capital gains (losses)	13,352	-9,448	59,016	21,126	94,629	44,958	33,905	126,735	84,046	300,227	164,400
Total claims and underwriting expenses	1,097,284	1,191,389	1,077,798	916,049	1,049,192	1,078,549	1,008,558	878,636	4,344,474	4,085,870	3,983,284
Net income (loss)	357,263	301,253	297,925	302,022	366,748	238,527	275,642	384,343	1,258,463	1,265,260	828,954
Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	-17,140	-26,337	-7,741	-8,089	-2,110	-3,768			59,307	5,878
Net income (loss) attributable to Everest Re Group	$340,123	$274,916	$290,184	$293,933	$364,638	$234,759	$275,642	$384,343	$1,199,156	$1,259,382	$828,954
Basic	$7.54	$6.05	$6.32	$6.26	$7.62	$4.85	$5.60	$7.56	$26.16	$25.67	$15.85
Diluted	$7.47	$6	$6.26	$6.21	$7.54	$4.81	$5.56	$7.50	$25.91	$25.44	$15.79

Schedule_I_Summary_Of_Investme1

Schedule I - Summary Of Investments - Other Than Investments In Related Parties (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	$16,809,240
Total investments and cash, Market Value	17,435,937
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	17,435,937
Total Fixed Maturities-Available For Sale [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	12,831,159
Total investments and cash, Market Value	13,101,067
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	13,101,067
U.S. Government And Government Agencies [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	221,052
Total investments and cash, Market Value	231,038
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	231,038
Obligations Of U.S. States And Political Subdivisions [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	783,129
Total investments and cash, Market Value	824,472
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	824,472
Foreign Government Securities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	1,488,144
Total investments and cash, Market Value	1,532,455
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	1,532,455
Foreign Corporate Securities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	2,980,716
Total investments and cash, Market Value	3,037,315
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	3,037,315
Public Utilities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	227,042
Total investments and cash, Market Value	239,627
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	239,627
All Other Corporate Bonds [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	4,715,726
Total investments and cash, Market Value	4,783,608
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	4,783,608
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	231,439
Total investments and cash, Market Value	241,685
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	241,685
Agency Residential [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	2,157,182
Total investments and cash, Market Value	2,183,164
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	2,183,164
Non-Agency Residential [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	2,734
Total investments and cash, Market Value	2,731
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	2,731
Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	23,995
Total investments and cash, Market Value	24,972
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	24,972
Fixed Maturities - Available For Sale At Fair Value [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	2,143	[1]
Total investments and cash, Market Value	1,509	[1]
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	1,509	[1]
Equity Securities - Available For Sale At Market Value [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	148,326
Total investments and cash, Market Value	140,210
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	140,210
Equity Securities - Available For Sale At Fair Value [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	1,082,281	[1]
Total investments and cash, Market Value	1,447,820	[1]
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	1,447,820	[1]
Short-Term Investments And Cash [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	1,705,932
Total investments and cash, Market Value	1,705,932
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	1,705,932
Other Invested Assets [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	601,925
Total investments and cash, Market Value	601,925
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	601,925
Cash [Member]
Summary of Investments, Other than Investments in Related Parties, Reportable Data [Line Items]
Total investments and cash, Cost	437,474
Total investments and cash, Market Value	437,474
Total investments and cash, Amount Shown in Balance Sheet	$437,474
[1]	Original cost does not reflect fair value adjustments, which have been realized through the statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

Schedule_II_Condensed_Financia1

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant (Narrative) (Details) (Parent Company [Member], Notes Payable [Member], USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2014
Parent Company [Member] | Notes Payable [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Face Amount	$250,000,000
Maturity Date	31-Dec-23
Debt instrument, stated interest rate	1.72%

Schedule_II_Condensed_Financia2

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant (Condensed Balance Sheets) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	$13,101,067	$12,636,907
Short-term investments	1,705,932	1,214,199
Cash	437,474	611,382
Accrued investment income	111,075	119,058
Other assets	236,436	246,664
TOTAL ASSETS	20,817,824	19,808,036
Other liabilities	316,469	333,425
Total liabilities	12,945,152	12,746,382
Preferred shares, par value: $0.01; 50,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding
Common shares, par value: $0.01; 200,000 shares authorized; (2014) 68,336 and (2013) 67,965 issued before treasury shares	683	680
Additional paid-in capital	2,068,807	2,029,774
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income tax expense (benefit) of $20,715 at 2014 and $57,661 at 2013	48,317	157,728
Treasury shares, at cost; 23,650 shares (2014) and 20,422 shares (2013)	-2,485,897	-1,985,873
Retained earnings	7,819,210	6,765,967
Total shareholders' equity attributable to Everest Re Group	7,451,120	6,968,276	6,733,467
TOTAL LIABILITIES, NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	20,817,824	19,808,036
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value, amortized cost	12,831,159	12,391,164
Preferred shares, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred shares, authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred shares, issued	0	0
Preferred shares, outstanding	0	0
Common shares, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common shares, authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common shares, issued	476	586	518
Common shares, outstanding	68,336,000	67,965,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), deferred income tax expense (benefit)	20,715	57,661
Treasury shares, at cost	23,650,000	20,422,000
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Fixed maturities, market value	26,297	31,856
Short-term investments	297,751	28,443
Cash	1,398	3,643
Investment in subsidiaries, at equity in the underlying net assets	7,374,460	6,885,027
Accrued investment income	239	290
Receivable from subsidiaries	2,273	728
Subscription advances to Mt. Logan Re		20,000
Other assets	1,075	1,609
TOTAL ASSETS	7,703,493	6,971,596
Long term note payable - Affiliated	250,000
Due to subsidiaries	1,765	2,740
Other liabilities	608	580
Total liabilities	252,373	3,320
Preferred shares, par value: $0.01; 50,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding
Common shares, par value: $0.01; 200,000 shares authorized; (2014) 68,336 and (2013) 67,965 issued before treasury shares	683	680
Additional paid-in capital	2,068,807	2,029,774
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income tax expense (benefit) of $20,715 at 2014 and $57,661 at 2013	48,317	157,728
Treasury shares, at cost; 23,650 shares (2014) and 20,422 shares (2013)	-2,485,897	-1,985,873
Retained earnings	7,819,210	6,765,967
Total shareholders' equity attributable to Everest Re Group	7,451,120	6,968,276
TOTAL LIABILITIES, NONCONTROLLING INTERESTS AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY	7,703,493	6,971,596
Fixed maturities - available for sale, at market value, amortized cost	26,016	30,937
Preferred shares, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Preferred shares, authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred shares, issued	0	0
Preferred shares, outstanding	0	0
Common shares, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common shares, authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common shares, issued	68,336,000	67,965,000
Common shares, outstanding	68,336,000	67,965,000
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), deferred income tax expense (benefit)	$20,715	$57,661
Treasury shares, at cost	23,650,000	20,422,000

Schedule_II_Condensed_Financia3

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant (Condensed Statements Of Operations) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net investment income	$134,046	$142,143	$131,224	$123,157	$126,127	$127,872	$148,729	$145,781	$530,570	$548,509	$600,202
Net realized capital gains (losses)	13,352	-9,448	59,016	21,126	94,629	44,958	33,905	126,735	84,046	300,227	164,400
Other income (expense)									18,437	-5,487	3,318
Total revenues									5,790,589	5,640,836	4,922,810
Total expenses	1,097,284	1,191,389	1,077,798	916,049	1,049,192	1,078,549	1,008,558	878,636	4,344,474	4,085,870	3,983,284
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									1,446,115	1,554,966	939,526
Income tax expense (benefit)									187,652	289,706	110,572
NET INCOME (LOSS)	357,263	301,253	297,925	302,022	366,748	238,527	275,642	384,343	1,258,463	1,265,260	828,954
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities arising during the period									704	-395,797	174,025
Reclassification adjustment for realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)									-21,392	6,977	19,676
Total URA(D) on securities arising during the period									22,096	-402,774	154,349
Foreign currency translation adjustments									-95,417	-162	22,698
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss) for the period									-39,110	17,837	-11,771
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of net (gain) loss included in net income (loss)									3,020	5,778	4,795
Total benefit plan net gain (loss) for the period									-36,090	23,615	-6,976
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax									-109,411	-379,321	170,071
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)									1,089,745	880,061	999,025
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net investment income									824	982	1,160
Net realized capital gains (losses)									15		286
Other income (expense)									-574	-902	-754
Net income (loss) of subsidiaries									1,214,334	1,275,955	843,022
Total revenues									1,214,599	1,276,035	843,714
Other expenses									15,443	16,653	14,760
Total expenses									15,443	16,653	14,760
INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES									1,199,156	1,259,382	828,954
Income tax expense (benefit)
NET INCOME (LOSS)									1,199,156	1,259,382	828,954
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) ("URA(D)") on securities arising during the period									704	-395,797	174,025
Reclassification adjustment for realized losses (gains) included in net income (loss)									-21,392	6,977	19,676
Total URA(D) on securities arising during the period									22,096	-402,774	154,349
Foreign currency translation adjustments									-95,417	-162	22,698
Benefit plan actuarial net gain (loss) for the period									-39,110	17,837	-11,771
Reclassification adjustment for amortization of net (gain) loss included in net income (loss)									3,020	5,778	4,795
Total benefit plan net gain (loss) for the period									-36,090	23,615	-6,976
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax									-109,411	-379,321	170,071
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)									$1,089,745	$880,061	$999,025

Schedule_II_Condensed_Financia4

Schedule II - Condensed Financial Information Of The Registrant (Condensed Statements Of Cash Flows) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net income (loss)	$1,258,463	$1,265,260	$828,954
Change in other assets and liabilities, net	35,419	-57,212	76,788
Amortization of bond premium (accrual of bond discount)	49,214	66,461	61,844
Realized capital losses (gains)	-84,046	-300,227	-164,400
Non-cash compensation expense	21,197	31,844	31,984
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	1,313,821	1,098,261	694,632
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at market value	1,811,801	1,092,387	913,139
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at market value	-4,672,633	-3,543,776	-3,328,409
Net change in short-term investments	-497,983	-357,451	-175,043
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-1,180,072	-224,003	-264,548
Common shares issued during the period, net	17,839	51,500	21,473
Purchase of treasury shares	-500,024	-621,915	-289,988
Dividends paid to shareholders	-145,913	-106,681	-100,402
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	-312,232	-776,493	-368,917
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH	4,575	-23,433	27,232
Net increase (decrease) in cash	-173,908	74,332	88,399
Cash, beginning of period	611,382	537,050	448,651
Cash, end of period	437,474	611,382	537,050
Parent Company [Member]
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net income (loss)	1,199,156	1,259,382	828,954
Equity in retained (earnings) deficit of subsidiaries	-1,214,334	-1,275,955	-843,022
Dividends received from subsidiaries	690,000	665,000	465,000
Change in other assets and liabilities, net	20,612	1,334	-2,414
Increase (decrease) in due to/from affiliates	-2,520	1,378	484
Amortization of bond premium (accrual of bond discount)	156	241	494
Realized capital losses (gains)	-15		-286
Non-cash compensation expense	1,828	1,087	1,536
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	694,883	652,467	450,746
Additional investment in subsidiaries	-73,873	-93,967	-49,673
Subscription advances to Mt. Logan Re		-20,000
Proceeds from fixed maturities matured/called - available for sale, at market value	4,765	7,856	5,290
Proceeds from fixed maturities sold - available for sale, at market value	50,010		21,955
Cost of fixed maturities acquired - available for sale, at market value	-49,994	-413
Net change in short-term investments	-269,307	103,174	-89,247
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-338,399	-3,350	-111,675
Common shares issued during the period, net	37,208	82,258	51,921
Purchase of treasury shares	-500,024	-621,915	-289,988
Proceeds from issuance of long term notes- affiliated	250,000
Dividends paid to shareholders	-145,913	-106,681	-100,402
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	-358,729	-646,338	-338,469
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH
Net increase (decrease) in cash	-2,245	2,779	602
Cash, beginning of period	3,643	864	262
Cash, end of period	$1,398	$3,643	$864

Schedule_III_Supplementary_Ins1

Schedule III - Supplementary Insurance Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Acquisition Costs	$398,408	$363,721	$303,268
Reverse for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	9,720,813	9,673,240	10,069,055
Unearned Premium Reserves	1,728,745	1,579,945	1,322,525
Premiums Earned	5,169,135	4,753,543	4,164,628
Net Investment Income	530,570	548,509	600,202
Incurred Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses	2,906,534	2,800,251	2,745,265
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	1,135,586	977,558	952,701
Other Operating Expenses	240,400	237,126	207,659
Net Written Premium	5,256,903	5,004,821	4,081,071
U.S. [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Acquisition Costs	242,178	224,201	183,021
Reverse for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	6,022,556	5,915,490	6,281,606
Unearned Premium Reserves	1,099,644	1,044,609	857,325
Premiums Earned	3,017,068	2,708,938	2,268,840
Net Investment Income	253,304	256,120	261,727
Incurred Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses	1,765,970	1,746,134	1,750,710
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	616,068	500,585	468,228
Other Operating Expenses	163,584	166,459	147,758
Net Written Premium	3,051,133	2,893,284	2,158,575
International [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Acquisition Costs	69,050	68,594	62,250
Reverse for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	1,778,216	1,701,907	1,825,443
Unearned Premium Reserves	347,261	275,083	239,671
Premiums Earned	1,310,903	1,289,341	1,214,840
Net Investment Income	40,262	44,325	47,676
Incurred Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses	748,174	675,362	586,325
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	306,229	295,883	300,116
Other Operating Expenses	34,598	33,910	29,294
Net Written Premium	1,336,633	1,327,430	1,188,745
Bermuda [Member]
Supplementary Insurance Information, by Segment [Line Items]
Deferred Acquisition Costs	87,180	70,926	57,996
Reverse for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses	1,920,041	2,055,843	1,962,006
Unearned Premium Reserves	281,840	260,253	225,529
Premiums Earned	841,164	755,264	680,948
Net Investment Income	237,004	248,064	290,799
Incurred Loss and Loss Adjustment Expenses	392,390	378,755	408,230
Amortization of Deferred Acquisition Costs	213,289	181,090	184,357
Other Operating Expenses	42,218	36,757	30,607
Net Written Premium	$869,137	$784,107	$733,751

Schedule_IV_Reinsurance_Detail

Schedule IV - Reinsurance (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Gross Amount									$1,183,498	$1,207,833	$1,054,707
Ceded to Other Companies									419,616	203,114	243,746
Assumed from Other Companies									4,405,253	3,748,824	3,353,667
Net Amount	1,362,330	1,389,998	1,272,317	1,144,490	1,287,496	1,225,755	1,151,533	1,088,759	5,169,135	4,753,543	4,164,628
Total Property And Liability Insurance Premiums Earned [Member]
Reinsurance Premiums for Insurance Companies, by Product Segment [Line Items]
Gross Amount									1,183,498	1,207,833	1,054,707
Ceded to Other Companies									419,616	203,114	243,746
Assumed from Other Companies									4,405,253	3,748,824	3,353,667
Net Amount									$5,169,135	$4,753,543	$4,164,628
Assumed to Net									85.20%	78.90%	80.50%