  We consider a non singular origin for the Universe starting from an Einstein
static Universe in the framework of a theory which uses two volume elements
$\sqrt{-{g}}d^{4}x$ and $\Phi d^{4}x$, where $\Phi $ is a metric independent
density, also curvature, curvature square terms, first order formalism and for
scale invariance a dilaton field $\phi$ are considered in the action. In the
Einstein frame we also add a cosmological term that parametrizes the zero point
fluctuations. The resulting effective potential for the dilaton contains two
flat regions, for $\phi \rightarrow \infty$ relevant for the non singular
origin of the Universe and $\phi \rightarrow -\infty$, describing our present
Universe. Surprisingly, avoidance of singularities and stability as $\phi
\rightarrow \infty$ imply a positive but small vacuum energy as $\phi
\rightarrow -\infty$. Zero vacuum energy density for the present universe is
the "threshold" for universe creation. This requires a modified emergent
universe scenario, where the universe although very old, it does have a
beginning.
