From Rabbi Yitzchak Abarbanel (1437-1508), a medieval philosopher, statesman and biblical commentator in his book Mashmia Yeshuah, which delves into the details of Moshiach-related prophecies throughout Tanach:
The first good harbinger of our salvation to be heard was Bilaam, son of Be’or. Although originally a sorcerer intent on using his powers against the Jews, the spirit of G-d rested upon him and manifested in his prophecy, in order that he as a popular prophet of the non-Jews speak positively about the Jewish people and publicize G-d’s awesome deeds among the nations, that He performs toward His nation and His pious ones.
His prophecy of the Jewish redemption was akin to an evil prosecuting angel who is forced to confirm what is righteous against its will, to answer “Amen.”
