EXHIBIT 23(a)


INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT


We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement of
Torchmark Corporation on Form S-8 and the accompanying Form S-3 Prospectus of
the report of Deloitte & Touche LLP dated January 28, 2000, appearing in the
Annual Report on Form 10-K of Torchmark Corporation for the year ended December
31, 1999 and to the reference of Deloitte & Touche LLP under the heading
"Experts" in the Prospectus, which is part of this Registration Statement.



DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Dallas, Texas
June 30, 2000