“thrones were set in place.” On Judgment Day people will be judged according to what they have done on earth. Scripture indicates that on that day angels will assist in some way with the judging of people. That “thrones” are set in place indicates more than one throne and likely more than a few. These thrones are likely the thrones of the angels who are also referred to as “elders” in Revelation 4:4, 10 (cp. Luke 12:8).

“Ancient of Days.” Daniel 7:9 introduces us to a new title for God, Yahweh, which is “the Ancient of Days.” This is one of the times in Scripture when God is shown coming into concretion in a human form. He does this many times in the Bible, starting in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3), when Adam and Eve heard the sound of Him walking in the Garden. This is the only verse where God has the title “Ancient of Days,” but it is very appropriate, especially in light of the biblical culture which honored the aged. The fact that God is the Ancient of Days helps qualify Him to be the Judge of all the earth; He would have great experience and wisdom and could render a righteous verdict. [For more on God coming into human form, see commentary on Acts 7:55].

“and its wheels burning fire.” We were shown the wheels of God’s cherubim chariot-throne in Ezekiel 1:15-21 (see commentary on Ezek. 1:15). These may be different wheels, however. In any case, the idea that God and His throne move from place to place is not just here in the Bible.