A magnetically actuated reciprocating motor utilizes the stored energy of rare earth magnets and an electromagnetic field provided by a solenoid to reciprocally drive a solenoid assembly. A converting mechanism, such as a connecting rod and crankshaft, converts the reciprocating motion of the solenoid assembly to power a work object. The solenoid assembly comprises a solenoid having a nonferromagnetic spool with a tubular center section and a coil of wire wrapped around the center section. A magnetic actuator has a permanent magnet at each end of an elongated shaft that is received through the center section of the spool. A switching mechanism switches magnetic polarity at the ends of the solenoid so the solenoid assembly is alternatively repelled and attracted by the permanent magnets. A controlling mechanism interconnecting an output shaft and the switching mechanism provides the timing to switch the polarity of the solenoid and reciprocate the solenoid assembly.